The Seattle Mariners made a deep postseason run in 2025, advancing to the American League Championship Series, losing to the Toronto Blue Jays in seven games.
A big reason for their success was center fielder Julio Rodriguez. In the Mariners’ 12 postseason games, he posted an .809 OPS, with four home runs, nine RBIs and six runs scored.
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While the Mariners failed to make their first World Series appearance, Rodriguez still earned a fourth career All-Star nod and finished sixth in AL MVP voting. With nine seasons left on a 12-year, $209 million contract, he prepares for the 2026 season, looking to help Seattle reach and win the Fall Classic.
Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44).© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
(© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images)
Before the Mariners play the Cleveland Guardians on Opening Day, the 25-year-old will represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. Rodriguez announced a new partnership with the Washington Apple Commission, with hopes of helping the youth in his home country.
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“Proud to announce a new partnership with Washington Apple Commission!” Rodriguez wrote. “Together, we are promoting healthy lifestyles in the Dominican Republic, supporting youth through @nolimitsfoundation, and showing how nutrition and movement can change lives. From the state of Washington all the way to Loma de Cabrera, this partnership represents connection, purpose, and impact. Let’s keep pushing forward.”
During the 2025 season, Rodriguez posted a .267/.324/.474 slash line to go along with 174 hits, 32 home runs, 106 runs scored and 95 RBIs. However, with infielders Jorge Polanco and Eugenio Suárez departing as free agents, the Mariners lost two key pieces to their postseason run.
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That adds pressure for Rodriguez to maintain a high level of performance going into his fifth season. The Mariners’ season will officially begin on March 26 with a three-game home series against the Guardians. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Park. Before that, Rodriguez and the Dominican Republic squad will open World Baseball Classic pool play against Nicaragua at 7 p.m. March 6 in Houston.
Related: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Makes Physical Appearance Change Ahead of 8th MLB Season
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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