After 21 years of missing the MLB playoffs and setting a drought record, the Seattle Mariners finally punched their ticket to the postseason. Despite the long wait, the dedicated fans of the Pacific Northwest stuck around to support their favorite team in their first home playoff game and appearance since 2001.

Across the MLB, NBA, NHL and NFL, the Mariners held the longest active streak of missing the postseason with a 21 year-long drought. On Saturday Oct. 15, the Mariners hosted their first home playoff game in 21 years

On Sept. 30, Cal Raleigh ended the depressing era with a walk off home run against the Oakland Athletics, supported by Logan Gilbert’s stellar game on the mound giving up only three hits. As the scoreboard at T-Mobile Park presented the final score of 2-1, some fans were filled with emotion they haven’t felt since 2001.

“When Cal Raleigh hit the home run the whole crowd just went crazy and the whole stadium was alive.” Said Ms. McGoorty, a big Mariners fan. “Usually after Mariners games people just leave the stadium right away but people were just hanging out, walking around and high fiving each other for at least an hour afterwards.”

The Mariners also picked up new fans in recent years due to their success.

New additions to the team attracted fans that haven’t had an interest in baseball before.

“Before this year it seemed boring because we weren’t winning, and I wasn’t as interested in baseball because of that,” said Hayley Mohr, a modern Mariners fan. “New players like Julio Rodríguez brought my attention to the team.”

After sweeping the Toronto Blue Jays in the Wildcard round of the playoffs, the Mariners faced the Houston Astros for a five-game series. Losing both games in Houston left the Mariners with their backs against the wall in their first home playoff game in over two decades.

The Mariners and Astros tied a record for the longest-running playoff game ever, lasting 17 scoreless innings and just over 6 hours. The Astros were able to squeak out the win with a solo home run by Jeremy Peña in the 18^th inning to end the Mariners’ season.

“People were really tired. it was a really long game with a lot of emotional investment,” said Ms. McGoorty, who attended the game. “Ultimately, it was a pretty positive crowd.”

As several players signed lengthy contracts to remain with the Mariners, it’s easy to look forward to the future. Mariners’ 21-year-old centerfielder Julio Rodríguez, top candidate for 2022 Rookie of the Year, agreed to a 12-year, $209,300,000 contract keeping him in Seattle.

“I think Julio’s contract means a lot since he brings so much to the team,” said Hayley Mohr. “He’s a great defender and energizes the crowd like no one else.”

Additionally, 29-year-old pitcher Luis Castillo, traded to the Mariners during the 2022 season, signed a five-year, $108,000,000 deal. The 31-year-old third baseman, Eugenio Suárez, is also under contract for six years, $66,000,000. Making the playoffs this season also gives the Mariners momentum and postseason experience going into next season.

“I also think that just making the playoffs is motivating and encouraging,” said Ms. McGoorty. “I feel like teams that have been in the playoffs recently have that experience, so they know what to expect and how to work through it all.”

With a young team motivated by electric, loyal fans, the Mariners are expected to produce seasons much like this one far into the future. At last, baseball is back in the Emerald City.

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