Julio Rodriguez news
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The gist
Julio Rodriguez hit a three-run homer Monday, going 2-for-5 in Seattle's 9-2 win. The blast came after his costly gaffe in a 22-0 loss.
Background
Julio Rodriguez, the Seattle Mariners' star center fielder, has been in the news for both his offensive performance and a notable defensive mistake. On August 18, 2026, in a game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Rodriguez caught a fly ball and tossed it into the stands, thinking it was the third out when it was only the second, leading to two more runs scoring in a 22-0 blowout. This gaffe drew criticism from fans and media, especially given his $18 million salary this season. However, he bounced back with a strong offensive showing on Monday, hitting a three-run homer in a 9-2 win over the Phillies.
How it unfolded
- Aug 18, 2026In a game against the Brewers, Rodriguez caught a fly ball with one out and threw it into the stands, thinking the inning was over. The error allowed two more runs to score in a 22-0 loss, the worst in Mariners history.
- Aug 19, 2026Media and fans criticized Rodriguez's mental mistake, with some calling it 'inexcusable' and suggesting he should be DFA'd.
- Aug 21, 2026Rodriguez revealed a custom Spider-Man bat for MLB Players' Weekend, drawing positive attention.
- Aug 24, 2026Rodriguez went 2-for-5 with a three-run home run in the Mariners' 9-2 win over the Phillies, showing a strong offensive response.
Who’s saying what
- Fans
- Fans slammed Rodriguez's error as 'absolutely inexcusable' and some called for him to be DFA'd.
- Analysts
- Analysts noted Rodriguez's offensive numbers have declined each year since his rookie season, with his current OPS+ of 109 being a career low.
- Support
- Some pointed out that Rodriguez has been a key player for the Mariners, with flashes of greatness, and his Spider-Man bat shows his personality and engagement.