Julio Rodriguez’s 2 Homers Power Mariners to Snap Skid

The Seattle Mariners got exactly what they needed on Saturday night — a statement win powered by their electric superstar in center field. Julio Rodríguez led Seattle to a 10-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park with a performance that reminded everyone why he’s one of the game’s most dynamic talents.

He blasted two massive home runs, picked up three total hits, and made a jaw-dropping defensive play. Rodríguez not only snapped the Mariners’ four-game losing streak but also kept his team in the thick of the postseason race.

His resurgence in the second half has been nothing short of remarkable. He credits this turnaround to a bold decision to skip the All-Star Game earlier this year, giving himself a chance to reset mentally and physically.

Rodríguez’s Power Surge Comes at Just the Right Time

Rodríguez wasted no time against the Braves, smashing a 422-foot homer in the first inning to put Seattle on the board. Later, with the score tied 2-2 in the seventh, he did it again — this time launching a 441-foot shot to dead center that broke the game open.

Those two home runs brought his season total to 30. He’s now just the ninth player in Mariners history with multiple 30-homer seasons.

A Return to MVP-Caliber Form

Before the All-Star break, Rodríguez’s power numbers looked pretty underwhelming — just 11 home runs with a .695 OPS. Since taking that midseason break, though, he’s been on a tear.

In his last 52 games, Rodríguez has piled up:

• 19 home runs
• 43 RBIs
• 40 runs scored
• A .960 OPS, ranking among the best in Major League Baseball

It’s not just the home runs — there’s a new energy in his whole game. His speed, swagger, and defense are all back in the spotlight.

Defensive Brilliance to Match the Bat

Rodríguez made his presence felt in the field, too. In the sixth inning, Braves outfielder Michael Harris II thought he had extra bases, but Rodríguez chased down the ball in the gap with a spectacular running catch.

That play added to his tally of eight outs above average this year, showing off his elite range and glove in center field.

The Mental and Physical Reset

Rodríguez’s decision to skip the All-Star Game in Atlanta raised some eyebrows. But he’s been open about how stepping away gave him a chance to clear his head and recharge.

He credits that break as the turning point in his season, letting him play with the confidence and explosiveness fans expect.

Raleigh Ties Historic Catcher Home Run Record

While Rodríguez stole the show, Cal Raleigh made some history of his own. His ninth-inning blast traveled 418 feet and marked his 52nd home run of the season — with 42 of those coming while playing catcher.

That ties Javy Lopez’s single-season record for the position, a remarkable feat that cements Raleigh’s status as one of the league’s top power-hitting catchers.

Significance for the Mariners’ Playoff Push

This win could prove huge for the Mariners. Coming in on a four-game skid during a tough road trip, the team badly needed a spark.

Rodríguez delivered, and now there’s hope this hot streak can push Seattle into October baseball.

Looking Ahead

The Mariners’ offense has been all over the place this season. Still, with Rodríguez locked in and Raleigh mashing behind the plate, Seattle suddenly feels like a real threat for any contender.

If Rodríguez keeps up this post-break tear — maybe even pulls off another 30/30 season — the Mariners just might have the firepower and defense to make a serious postseason run.

Momentum in baseball can flip in a heartbeat. On Saturday night in Atlanta, it sure seemed like Julio Rodríguez might’ve just nudged it Seattle’s way.

 
Here is the source article for this story: J-Rod (2 HRs) opens floodgates for Cal (No. 52) and Mariners to snap skid