Julio Rodríguez Injured, Mariners' Playoff Hopes Affected

Seattle Mariners star Julio Rodríguez exited Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Angels after being struck on his right ankle by a 98 mph ground ball while attempting to steal third base. He was helped off the field in visible pain and was later diagnosed with a contusion after X-rays came back negative, leaving him day-to-day. Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed relief that the injury was not more severe, and Rodríguez remains optimistic about returning for Sunday's series finale. Rodríguez, who has a .254 batting average, 10 home runs, and 32 RBIs this season, is a key contributor to Seattle's postseason hopes despite a slight dip from previous seasons. The Mariners are currently on a five-game losing streak and sit 3.5 games behind the Houston Astros in the AL West. The injury highlights both Rodríguez's importance to the team and the fragility of their playoff chances.