The Seattle Mariners’ clubhouse was understandably somber after their fifth consecutive loss, with the atmosphere reflecting the mounting pressure and dwindling playoff hopes. Just days ago, the team was riding high after a decisive victory over the Mets on Sunday Night Baseball, but an ill-fated road trip has since dampened spirits. Among the players, Julio Rodríguez’s frustration was palpable as he walked through the clubhouse, sweat-drenched and visibly disappointed. It was clear that he needed time before addressing the media.
Mitch Haniger stepped up to speak on behalf of the team, expressing confidence that the hard work being put in by his teammates would eventually pay off. About 20 minutes later, Rodríguez was ready to talk. After being the last batter at the plate with a chance to spark a late comeback, he needed a moment to collect himself.
“Obviously, we had a chance. I just wasn’t happy with that at-bat,” Rodríguez said, referring to his plate appearance with the bases loaded. “It can go both ways—they’re competing too. I just hold myself to a high standard. That was a moment where I wanted to come through for the team. It didn’t happen, but I’ve moved on. I got my workout in, cleared my head, and I’m ready for the next day.”
Rodríguez remains determined to turn things around, not just for himself but for the entire team, especially the starting pitchers who have consistently delivered strong performances.
“I feel bad when I can’t do my best to support the pitchers when I’m hitting,” Rodríguez admitted. “They show up every night and give us a chance, so it hits me harder when I can’t do the same for them. Our pitchers always give their best for us, and I just feel it’s only right for us to do the same. When I can’t personally do that, I feel really bad.”
Despite the roller coaster of a season the Mariners have had, Rodríguez is cautious about relying on the hope of a hot streak.
“I don’t want to talk about getting on a hot streak,” he said. “What I want is consistent performance, where you can say, ‘This is what the Mariners are.’ I believe that really good teams are good every single day, no matter what, whether they win or lose. That’s the standard I want us to meet. I don’t want to rely on streaks.”
The Mariners have seen consistency from their starting pitching, but the offense has struggled, with Rodríguez himself facing challenges for much of the season. Despite the ups and downs, Rodríguez remains focused on one thing: perseverance.
“It takes a lot of courage and belief to stay strong and keep pushing forward,” Rodríguez said. “It’s tough right now, but if you believe in yourself—no matter how bad things seem—you can get out of whatever slump you’re in.”
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