Getty Image / Tim Heitman
Baseball is one of the most difficult sports in the world, as it’s rare to see young talent reach superstar status.
However, Julio Rodriguez is already achieving with the Seattle Mariners, as he’s already one of the best players in baseball at just 22 years old.
He proved that to be the case on Sunday, as he became the second fastest player in MLB history to achieve 40 home runs and 40 steals in his career, per ESPN Stats & Info. He reached this accomplishment in just 200 games, while Fernando Tatis Jr. did it in 185.
They are the only two players to reach the 40-40 mark in home runs and steals since 1900.
Julio Rodríguez reached 40 HR & 40 SB in his 200th game, the 2nd-fastest by any player since 1900.
Fernando Tatis Jr. did it in 185 games. pic.twitter.com/E9y3RBxWd0
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 19, 2023
It’s absolutely incredible to see someone so young putting up ridiculous numbers like this. Additionally, it’s awesome to see Rodriguez continue playing so well after winning the AL Rookie of the Year.
The Mariners have something special, and hopefully, they can build a solid roster around him. Considering he’s already signed a 12-year, $209 million deal with Seattle, the franchise has plenty of time to build.
This year, Julio Rodriguez is batting .244, with 12 home runs, 39 RBIs, and 15 steals. He’s also not bad in the outfield either.
In the end, it’s exciting to watch this kid play, especially now that he’s already making MLB history.
Make sure to tune in on Tuesday night to watch Julio Rodriguez in action. The Mariners hope to get above .500 on the season as they take on the New York Yankees.