Alberto Rodriguez Slugs Seven Extra-Base Hits In Big Week
Seattle Mariners outfield prospect Alberto Rodriguez originally signed with the Blue Jays in 2017 before they flipped him to Seattle as part of the trade package centered around veteran hurler James Paxton. Rodriguez has now spent parts of three seasons at the High-A level and is having his best year to date. The 22-year-old is capable of hitting to all parts of the field. He has also shown good power, breaking his personal record for single-season home runs and we aren't even at the All-Star Break yet. The left-hander has always played the outfield, but with subpar speed and arm strength, his future defensive contributions might be limited to left field. Therefore, it's all the more reason that his bat must continue to play. Offensive production certainly wasn't a problem for Rodriguez this past week. The 22-year-old put on a show, going 10-for-20 (.500) with one homer, six RBI, and just two strikeouts. Along the way, he uncorked four doubles and two triples. Although he went the whole week without drawing a walk, it was impressive to see him put the ball in play with ease, all while keeping strikeouts to a minimum.
Seattle Mariners outfield prospect Alberto Rodriguez, now 22, originally signed with the Blue Jays as an international free agent back in 2017. He spent some time in rookie ball before being flipped to the Mariners in the 2020 Taijuan Walker trade. He has produced varying results since joining the Seattle organization but continues to be viewed as one of the club's consensus top-30 prospects. Rodriguez has faced major discipline issues at the plate, struggling to consistently connect on pitches in the zone and avoid pitches up, down, in, or out. He grades as an average defender who lacks the flashy speed needed for center field or the strong arm of a right fielder. As a result, he'll likely operate as a left fielder or designated hitter for the big league club, meaning his bat would need to come alive in order for him to stay on the roster. This past week, the 5-foot-10, 225-pound outfielder showed just how much upside he offers at the plate. Rodriguez logged a hit in all seven games, going 13-f0r-24 with a whopping six homers and 15 RBI. He also drew one walk and struck out seven times.
