Seattle Mariners fans concerned by Julio Rodriguez hitting the wall hard trying to make a play in Spring Training: "Sit him until the opener"

Atlanta Braves v Seattle Mariners
Atlanta Braves v Seattle Mariners

Seattle Mariners star Julio Rodriguez had a hard collision with the outfield wall during Spring Training, generating immediate concern. He was clearly hurt after hitting the wall and was wincing in pain. He would remain in the game for a time before being replaced as a cautionary move.

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Rodriguez established that he has all the tools to be a superstar in 2022. Seeing a bonefide stud pushing a bit too hard during Spring Training is often nerve wracking.

If an injury is caused by one of these high effort plays, fans will regret him playing in these exhibition games. This is especially true for a player who is guaranteed to be an everyday starter.

Daniel Kramer shared an image of Julio Rodriguez colliding with the wall to Twitter.

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This is not a sight Seattle Mariners fans want to see in February. While it does speak to Rodriguez's competitive spirit and willingness to sacrifice to make plays, it doesn't need to be done in Spring Training.

Being healthy and ready for Opening Day is of paramount importance. Considering his plans to play in the World Baseball Classic, there are likely to be more worrying moments this offseason.

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The Seattle Mariners ended their lengthy playoff drought last season and came into 2023 with hope and expectations. The American League has been strong this year, with the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros at the top. The Mariners will be looking to prove they belong in that group this season. This is a goal they can't reach without Julio Rodriguez.

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Some players are simply unable to give anything less than 100 percent during live games. This is not a failing of players, it is in fact a strength most of the time. However, it is something that the coaching staff needs to be able to manage. Their goal is to win games in April through to October, not February.

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Julio Rodriguez gave the Seattle Mariners and their fans a scare, but he makes up for it with his play on the field.

Can Julio Rodriguez and the Seattle Mariners battle for a championship in 2023?

Seattle Mariners v San Diego Padres
Seattle Mariners v San Diego Padres

The Mariners have improved across the board for the 2023 season, but might still be a few years away from truly contending. They are a strong team, but still stand in the shadows of the other American League greats.

If they keep moving in the right direction, they could be in the World Series sooner rather than later.

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Edited by Kanav Seth
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