Julio Rodríguez & Josh Naylor homer as the Mariners beat the White Sox 8-6 on Aug. 7. See how Seattle's new firepower is igniting their 2025 playoff push.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
If you were wondering what an "all-in" Seattle Mariners team looks like, Thursday night was your answer. It was a potent cocktail of superstar power, savvy acquisitions, and pure, unadulterated energy. Julio Rodríguez didn't just return from the injured list; he detonated a three-run homer that sent a shockwave through T-Mobile Park. Coupled with another blast from new slugger Josh Naylor, the Mariners powered past the White Sox 8-6 in a game that felt like a preview of October baseball.
Julio Rodríguez, fresh off the IL, steps to the plate and launches a three-run missile. Welcome back, J-Rod.
The offense wasted no time showcasing its new depth. In the first inning, recently acquired first baseman Josh Naylor continued his torrid start as a Mariner, blasting a two-run shot to give Seattle an early lead. But the main event came in the second. With two on, Julio Rodríguez, playing in his first game back from an ankle injury, did what superstars do. He crushed a three-run homer, electrifying the crowd and staking the M's to a commanding lead. Cal Raleigh added a crucial two-run single, and in doing so, reached the 20-homer plateau for the third consecutive season—a testament to his consistent power from the catcher position.
The energy on the field is a direct result of a front office that pushed all its chips to the center of the table. In a series of aggressive moves, the Mariners acquired veteran leader and infielder Justin Turner from the Blue Jays, sending fan-favorite Ty France to Toronto in the deal. They didn't stop there, bolstering the bullpen by trading for hard-throwing reliever Yimi García from the Jays and another high-leverage arm, Gregory Santos, from the very team they beat tonight, the White Sox. The message is crystal clear: World Series or bust.
While the bats stole the headlines, the pitching plan is coming into focus. Logan Gilbert delivered a quality start, battling for 6 innings and striking out 8 to earn the win. But the real story is the bullpen depth. With the additions of Gregory Santos (3.12 ERA) and Yimi García, manager Scott Servais now has a wealth of options to bridge the gap to his lockdown closer. Andrés Muñoz shut the door in the ninth for his 24th save, and the path to him now looks more fortified than ever.
With every big move comes smaller roster adjustments. Outfielder Dominic Canzone was placed on the 10-day IL with an adductor strain, leading to the recall of speedster Jonatan Clase from Triple-A Tacoma for outfield depth. Speaking of Tacoma, the future continues to knock on the door. First baseman Tyler Locklear, who was optioned to make room for the new acquisitions, just smashed his 20th home run of the season for the Rainiers. His .278 average and 65 RBI prove he'll be ready if the call comes later this season.
Tonight's win was more than just another notch in the standings; it was a declaration of intent. With a healthy Julio, a booming lineup, and a reinforced bullpen, the Mariners are built for the stretch run. Every game from here on out has a playoff atmosphere, and this team looks ready to embrace the pressure. Buckle up, Seattle. The ride to October is about to get very, very exciting.
