Dear Mariners family,
As I sit down to write this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude, reflection, and a strong sense of pride for everything we’ve accomplished together along this great path. It is not often that a player is given the opportunity to represent a city, a club, and a fanbase as unique as Seattle’s – and for that, I am eternally grateful.
When I originally arrived here, I was simply an infielder with big hopes about making an impact and becoming the player I thought I could be. What I didn’t realize at the time was that Seattle would grow into more than just a baseball town. It became home. A city of unmatched enthusiasm, resilience, and, most importantly, unflinching support. You all greeted me not only as a player, but also as a person, which means everything to me.
Thank you, Mariners organization, for believing in me. Thank you for challenging, supporting, and providing a platform for me to grow. Every experience, from spring training skirmishes to playoff pushes, has shaped me. Not only have I matured as a baseball player, but also as a man. I’ve learned what it takes to be consistent, to lead, and to proudly wear the Mariners uniform. You trusted me with opportunities that defined my career, and I gave it my all every time I went on the field because you provided me with everything I needed to succeed.
To my previous and present teammates, it has been a privilege to share the dugout, the grind, and the joys with you. You made every victory sweeter and every defeat more acceptable. We made memories that I would cherish forever. Baseball is more than just a sport; it’s about brotherhood and friendship.
And to the fans, who are the lifeblood of this series, thank you for your unwavering support. Whether we were flying high or suffering through adversity, you turned up. You infused T-Mobile Park with enthusiasm that propelled us into the ninth inning, and you made sure we never felt alone, even on the road. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard my name screamed and felt a burst of motivation and purpose. It mattered. You mattered.
Seattle, you gave me the opportunity to write a chapter in my career that I will always remember. You provided me with an environment in which I could develop not only as a player, but also as a father, teammate, and member of this amazing community. From the coffee shops on Capitol Hill to the misty mornings along the Sound, this city has become a permanent part of me.
No matter where this game takes me next, please know that Seattle is in my heart. I will always be a Mariner in spirit. Thank you for everything.
With love and thanks.
Jorge Polanco