In a timely boost for the Seattle Mariners, outfielder Julio Rodriguez has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list and will be back in the lineup for tonight’s game against the New York Mets. This news comes courtesy of ESPN’s Buster Olney, who reported earlier today that the Mariners planned to activate Rodriguez in time for the matchup. In a corresponding move, infielder Ryan Bliss has been optioned to Triple-A.
Julio Rodriguez ’s return is a welcome development for Seattle, which has been embroiled in a fierce battle with the Houston Astros for the top spot in the AL West. The outfielder’s stint on the IL began after a collision with the outfield wall on July 21 resulted in a right high ankle sprain. Although Rodriguez was initially projected to miss more time, recent reports suggested he could return sooner than expected due to notable improvement in his mobility.
In tonight’s game, Rodriguez will serve as the designated hitter, a strategic decision that allows him to ease back into action without the immediate demands of center field. This move also enables Victor Robles to remain in center, where he has been unexpectedly effective both offensively and defensively since joining the team in early June.
Rodriguez’s timing for this return couldn’t be more crucial. His stint on the IL came just as he was finding his stride at the plate. Prior to the injury, Rodriguez had been struggling with a .244/.294/.324 slash line and seven home runs over his first 364 plate appearances. However, he had recently caught fire, hitting four homers and posting a staggering 1.219 OPS in just 49 plate appearances before the injury. This hot streak had lifted his season-long wRC+ to a league-average 100, and he continued to showcase his strong defensive skills in center field.
Robles has admirably filled in during Rodriguez’s absence, offering solid glovework and contributing significantly to the Mariners’ offense. As Rodriguez returns, the team hopes to harness his offensive prowess while managing his recovery to ensure he is fully ready for his regular center field duties in the near future.
