The Seattle Mariners concluded their 2024 season with an 85-77 record, narrowly missing the playoffs by one game. Despite a quiet offseason, the Mariners have started strong in 2025, currently leading the division with a 17-12 record and only one game behind the American League's best record.

Unlike other teams that have capitalized on weaker opponents, Seattle has faced one of the toughest schedules in the league, indicating that their success thus far may be legitimate. According to Baseball Reference, the Mariners are given a solid chance of winning the World Series. Key to their ambitions will be the performance of superstar outfielder Julio Rodríguez and the health of their starting rotation.

Jorge Polanco showcased his power at the plate, hitting two home runs in a crucial 5-3 victory against the Los Angeles Angels. Despite falling short of a three-home run game due to a spectacular catch by Jo Adell, Polanco's performance further cements his role as the driving force behind the Seattle Mariners' surprising offensive surge. He has hit two home runs in back-to-back games and leads the American League in key offensive metrics after a stellar week where he batted .471 with four home runs.

Polanco's resurgence comes after a surgery to repair his left patellar tendon last October, raising questions about his potential and value. With a $7 million contract for the season, he has proven to be one of the most valuable bargains in baseball. The Mariners are thriving, currently leading the American League West, in part due to Polanco's consistent hitting and making mechanical adjustments to his swing that have clearly paid off.

Jorge Polanco has been a standout performer for the Seattle Mariners, recently named American League Player of the Week after an impressive run. In a 5-3 victory against the Los Angeles Angels, Polanco hit two home runs, driving in five runs total. The Mariners took an early lead thanks to a three-run shot from Polanco in the bottom of the third inning. Meanwhile, Bryce Miller showcased his pitching prowess, delivering five shutout innings, preventing the Angels from scoring until the seventh, when Logan O'Hoppe finally broke through with a solo home run. The Mariners bullpen came in clutch, sealing the win against a late rally from the Angels, which included RBI doubles from Nolan Schanuel and Jorge Soler.

J.T. Realmuto leads MLB catchers as the highest-paid player for the 2025 season, earning $23.9 million. His contract, valued at $115.5 million over five years, underscores the value of elite catchers in today's game. The list of top-earning catchers also features Salvador Perez and Willson Contreras, with salaries of $21.8 million and $18 million, respectively. With only seven catchers earning over $10 million, the position remains underappreciated in terms of salary.

Sean Murphy and Mitch Garver round out the top five with earnings of $15 million and $12.5 million. Interestingly, the financial disparity among catchers highlights their critical but often overlooked role, especially as only 16 receive an annual salary of at least $5 million. The figures, compiled by USA TODAY, reflect present-day contract values, including deferrals and bonuses, providing insight into the financial landscape of MLB.

The Seattle Mariners face a setback as Dylan Moore is placed on the injured list due to right hip inflammation. Moore, a Gold Glove utility player, has contributed significantly across four positions this season, boasting a .286 batting average with six home runs and nine RBIs in 23 games. Meanwhile, Samad Taylor has been called up from Triple-A Tacoma to fill the roster gap, showcasing impressive stats, including a .321 average and a .950 OPS in the Pacific Coast League.

Furthermore, the Mariners have transferred Gregory Santos to the 60-day injured list, a necessary move to accommodate Taylor on the 40-man roster. Santos previously had a 5.14 ERA during his appearances this season, indicating the team's need for stronger pitching options. With Moore's absence, Seattle will look to bolster its lineup as they aim for success in the AL West.