Seattle Mariners outfielder Julio Rodríguez has made history by becoming the first player in MLB history to record 17 hits in a four-game span. Rodríguez achieved this feat on Saturday night against the Houston Astros, when he went 4-for-6 with a double and two runs scored. He broke the previous record of 16 hits in four games, set by Milt Stock of the Brooklyn Robins in 1925.
Rodríguez’s record-breaking performance
Rodríguez’s record-breaking performance began on Wednesday, when he went 4-for-5 with a home run, two doubles, three RBIs and three runs scored in a 9-6 win over the Texas Rangers. He followed that up with another 4-for-5 game on Thursday, with two doubles, two RBIs and two runs scored in a 7-3 win over the Rangers. On Friday, he had his best game of the series, going 5-for-5 with a triple, a stolen base, three RBIs and four runs scored in a 14-2 rout of the Astros. He capped off his historic run on Saturday, with a single to left field in the seventh inning that gave him his 17th hit in four games. He also had a double in the first inning and scored twice in the 10-3 victory over the Astros.
Rodríguez’s record-setting hit came off Astros reliever Ryne Stanek, who threw a fastball that Rodríguez lined to left field. The hit was greeted with cheers from the Mariners’ dugout and applause from the crowd at Minute Maid Park. Rodríguez acknowledged the milestone with a smile and a wave to his teammates.
Rodríguez’s impact on the Mariners
Rodríguez’s hot streak has helped the Mariners win their fifth straight game and improve their record to 71-58. They are currently in third place in the AL West, four games behind the first-place Rangers and three games behind the second-place Astros. They are also holding the third and final wild-card spot in the AL, half a game ahead of the Toronto Blue Jays.
Rodríguez has been one of the Mariners’ best players this season, after having a breakout rookie campaign in 2022. He is batting .278 with 18 home runs, 66 RBIs, 33 stolen bases and an .800 OPS. He leads the team in hits (141), runs (83), doubles (32), triples (7) and steals. He is also among the league leaders in several categories, such as hits (fourth), runs (sixth), doubles (tied for fourth), triples (tied for second) and steals (tied for third).
Rodríguez has also shown his versatility on defense, playing all three outfield positions and making several highlight-reel catches. He has a strong arm and good range, which make him an asset in any spot. He has also displayed his leadership skills and charisma, becoming a fan favorite and a vocal presence in the clubhouse.
Rodríguez’s future outlook
Rodríguez is only 22 years old and has already established himself as one of the best young players in baseball. He has a bright future ahead of him and could become a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. He is under team control through 2028 and could be part of a core that leads the Mariners to their first playoff appearance since 2001.
Rodríguez has shown that he can hit for average, power and speed, as well as play solid defense and run the bases well. He has also shown that he can handle pressure and perform at a high level against tough competition. He has proven that he is not just a flash in the pan, but a consistent and reliable star who can carry a team.
Rodríguez has made history with his record-breaking performance, but he is not satisfied with just that. He wants to help his team win games and make the postseason. He wants to continue to improve his skills and reach his full potential. He wants to be remembered as one of the best players of his generation.
