Jorge Polanco Sparks Mariners’ Hopes for a Thrilling Hollywood Finale

Every now and then, in the Seattle Mariners’ locker room, “Top Gun Anthem” blares from a phone. The source? Jorge Polanco, the team’s veteran second baseman. His ringtone reflects his love for the film, and it’s a playful reminder of the fun they share.

Right now, no one can complain about the noise. Polanco’s hot bat has been a game-changer this postseason. His recent three-run home run helped secure an impressive 10-3 victory, putting the Mariners up two games to none against the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League Championship Series (ALCS).

Seattle has had a tough history in baseball, marking 49 years without a World Series appearance. Yet here they are, just two wins away from clinching their first American League pennant. It’s a remarkable turn of events, especially considering Polanco’s recent struggles with injuries that left him doubting if he’d return to form. After knee surgery last year, he rejoined the Mariners on a one-year deal worth $7.75 million.

When asked about his journey, Polanco said, “It’s been a journey, man. I wouldn’t say it’s been bad or easy. I’ve been hurt, but now we’re here, and I’m glad to be back.” His determination is evident. This month, he’s been instrumental, hitting key home runs that have lifted his team.

In a division series game against the Detroit Tigers, Polanco launched two homers off a pitcher expected to win the Cy Young Award. He later scored the decisive hit in a crucial Game 5, sending the Mariners to their first ALCS since 2001. Again, he stepped up with a critical hit against the Blue Jays.

His most recent homer came in a crucial moment off reliever Louis Varland. The ball soared 400 feet, swinging the game in Seattle’s favor. Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised Polanco, noting that his swing is sharper now than ever.

Polanco’s comeback is even more impressive considering his past. He made his MLB debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2014 as a talented switch-hitter. After hitting a career-high 33 homers in 2021, injuries plagued him. Last season, he struggled with his performance, but the Mariners believed in him. They were right—this year, he quickly regained his power, hitting most of his home runs by pulling the ball, just like his teammates.

It’s no wonder fans and players respect him. Shortstop J.P. Crawford recalled how challenging it was to face Polanco during their time in Minnesota. “He single-handedly beat us so many times. You can see the type of player he is when he’s healthy,” Crawford said.

What’s remarkable is that Polanco made MLB history by recording three consecutive game-winning hits in the postseason’s later innings—a feat never seen before. It highlights how crucial he is to winning championships. Even with other star players like Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodriguez shining, having a player like Polanco makes all the difference.

Pitcher Bryan Woo acknowledged the significance of Polanco’s resurgence, especially for a player at this stage of his career. “It’s impressive that he bounced back after a tough year and is helping the team,” Woo noted.

Just a month ago, things looked bleak for the Mariners. They had lost ground in the standings and struggled to find consistency. But they rallied, ending the regular season strong, claiming the AL West title, and now eyeing a historic postseason run. Polanco and his teammates are well aware of the weight of their franchise’s history. “Yeah, we think about it,” he admitted. “We know what reaching the World Series would mean.”

With stars aligning and fans rooting them on, the Mariners find themselves on the brink of a memorable season. Polanco is at the center of it, embracing his role and making significant contributions. Whether it’s through powerful hits or a spirited attitude in the dugout, he exemplifies what it means to rise to the occasion.

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