One of the newest members of the Seattle Mariners organization, Julio Rodriguez is one of Jerry Dipoto’s first major investment in the International Pool. This is a crucial step if the team is truly invested in fixing its depleted farm system.
Julio Rodriguez is a recent 16 year old international signing of the Mariners from the Dominican Republic. He signed a $1.75 million bonus on July 2. Rodriguez is listed at 6’3, 205 lbs on Baseball America. He is a unique bat from Latin America, mainly because of his approach.
There is an old saying amongst Latin prospects, ” you can’t walk your way off the island.” In other words, if you want to be noticed, you have to swing… a lot. While this sentiment has waned recently, it is not the belief of Rodriguez.
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Scouts gush about Rodriguez’ approach and his ability to hit the ball to all fields. He rarely swings at poor pitches, choosing instead to work counts and wait for a pitch he can handle. Scouts also believe that he has plus power potential. Rodriguez posses the bat speed and loft necessary to hit with power to all fields.
There is some concern that his now average speed might dissipate as he grows more, but for now, it is a tool that can be worked with. He shows an ability to take good routes in the outfield, but his speed limits him to a corner. His arm is good, but not spectacular. Overall; he appears destined for right field, though some believe a move to first is inevitable.
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Rodriguez scouting grades appear similar to Mariners prospect Kyle Lewis. If that is the case, it is easy to see why Dipoto fell in love with the young Dominican. He has the upside of a middle of the order bat, who could hit for power and average. The Mariners need high upside players in their farm system, and Rodriguez fits that mold.