The Mariners' Second Base Conundrum: What's Next After Jorge Polanco?

The Seattle Mariners have officially declined their $12 million option on veteran Jorge Polanco, making him a free agent. This decision comes after a disappointing 2024 season for Polanco, who struggled with injuries and posted career lows in batting average and on-base percentage. With Polanco's departure, the Mariners are now on the hunt for a new second baseman this offseason.

Polanco's 2024 Season: A Statistical Overview
Polanco's 2024 season was marred by injuries and underperformance. In 118 games, he managed a batting average of just .213, with 15 home runs, 45 RBIs, and a career-worst 29.2% strikeout rate. His on-base percentage was .296, and he produced a mere 0.3 WAR, the lowest in his career since 2015. Polanco also played through a knee injury, which
required surgery in early October.

​Mariners' Options for Second Base
With Polanco out of the picture, the Mariners have several options to consider for the second base position. Here are a few potential candidates:

1. Gleyber Torres: The New York Yankees veteran is a two-time All-Star and is ranked No. 20 on ESPN MLB analyst Kiley McDaniel's list of top free agents. Torres is expected to command a three-year, $52.5 million contract2. His hitting skills and reasonable contract make him an attractive option for the Mariners.
2. Hye-Seong Kim: The South Korean star from the Kiwoom Heroes hit .326 last season with a .841 OPS, 30 stolen bases, and 90 runs scored. Kim's strong defense and affordable contract make him another intriguing option for Seattle2.
3. Internal Options: The Mariners have several internal candidates, including utilityman Dylan Moore, Josh Rojas, Ryan Bliss, and top prospect Cole Young. While none of these players have solidified the second base position, they could be part of a platoon or temporary solution.

The Mariners' Offensive Struggles
The Mariners' offensive struggles in 2024 were a significant factor in their decision to move on from Polanco. The team ranked in the bottom ten in RBIs, bottom five in total bases, and had the second-worst team batting average in the league2. Addressing these issues will be a top priority for the Mariners this offseason.

Looking Ahead
The Mariners' front office is determined to upgrade their batting order and find a reliable second baseman. Whether they opt for a high-profile free agent like Torres or Kim, or turn to their internal options, the goal is clear: improve the team's offensive production and make a strong push for the playoffs in 2025.

The Mariners' offseason moves will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With the right additions, Seattle could be a formidable contender in the American League West next season.