Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodríguez exited Monday’s 8-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds after being struck in the glute area by a wayward throw. Manager Dan Wilson described the move as a precautionary measure, citing the star outfielder’s recent return from a concussion that sidelined him for over two weeks.
The Incident and Immediate Removal
The injury occurred during the bottom of the fifth inning at T-Mobile Park. Rodríguez, who had been on the injured list until July 18 due to a concussion, hit a slow grounder toward Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz. While sprinting to first base, Rodríguez was struck by De La Cruz’s wide throw, which hit him in the backside, near the upper hamstring and glute area. Although Rodríguez remained in the game to finish the inning, he was visibly grabbing at the area after reaching base.
Following the inning, Rodríguez headed to the dugout tunnel accompanied by head athletic trainer Kyle Torgerson. He did not return for the start of the sixth, with Victor Robles shifting from right field to center and Weston Wilson entering the game to take over in right field.
Manager Dan Wilson on the Decision
Speaking after the game, manager Dan Wilson emphasized that the team was not treating the exit as a sign of a serious long-term issue, but rather a necessary moment of caution. Wilson acknowledged the intensity of the play, which had successfully driven in Victor Robles for the game’s first run.
“We kind of had to make a quick decision and just thought that it was the best moment there — just coming off of what he’s coming off of — to get him out. We’ll see how he is tomorrow.”
Dan Wilson, Mariners manager
Context of Recent Injury Stints
This incident is particularly sensitive for the Mariners given Rodríguez’s recent absence. He had only been back in the starting lineup since July 18, having missed over two weeks following a July 2 injury where he was struck in the back of the head by a throw while attempting to run from first to second base.
The Mariners also faced other roster challenges on Monday. Shortstop J.P. Crawford was scratched from the starting lineup approximately two hours before the first pitch due to a sore wrist. Crawford, who has been playing third base since June 16, is also considered day-to-day. Additionally, Dominic Canzone experienced back discomfort following an aggressive swing during the same game, though he managed to remain in the lineup.
Status and Outlook
As of Tuesday, July 21, Rodríguez is officially considered day-to-day. The team is expected to monitor his progress before the second game of the series against the Reds. His availability remains a primary question for the club, which is attempting to build momentum following a series win over the San Francisco Giants.
Sources: Seattletimes, MLB.com.
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