MLB analyst has some massive expectations for Julio Rodriguez in 2026

Since making his debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2022, Julio Rodríguez has quickly turned into one of the biggest stars across MLB. He is the straw that stirs Seattle's drink. 

He won the AL Rookie of the Year award in 2022 and has become a three-time All-Star as well. It's also worth noting he was an All-MLB First-Teamer last season and has also won two Silver Slugger Awards. 

Rodriguez was a vital part of Seattle's success last season, helping them make the postseason. Across 160 regular-season games, he hit .267/.324/.474 with 32 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and 95 runs batted in. 

MORE: Julio Rodriguez has a different mindset after an elite 2025 season

MLB analyst has some massive expectations for Julio Rodriguez in 2026

Seattle comes into the new season with a target on its back. They also come into the new season with the Houston Astros looking to get back on track after missing the postseason last year. 

So, the team certainly has its work cut out for it. J-Rod will be expected to perform at an All-Star level this season if Seattle wants to see any success. 

ESPN ranks him as the ninth-best player coming into the 2026 season, and Dan Schoenfield projects Rodriguez to put it all together this season. 

"Season prediction: This is the year it all comes together. He hits better in April. He hits better at home. He goes 40/30 and finishes with 8.0 WAR, which puts him in the thick of the MVP race."

Schoenfield projects Rodriguez to hit eight more home runs than he did this past year, which was tied for his career high. On top of that, he also projects him to swipe 10 more bags than he did last year, which could put him in the MVP contention. 

Don't be surprised if J-Rod comes out firing right from the start. He'll get a good head start playing for Team Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

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