Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez (44) hits a two run double against the Minnesota Twins in the ninth inning at Target Field on June 23. Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Is Prominent Sports Media Personality to Thank For Julio Rodriguez's Recent Turnaround?

Originally posted on Seattle Mariners on SI
By Brady Farkas | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 1:15 PM ET

Seattle Mariners star Julio Rodriguez is heading into the All-Star break with some major momentum at the plate. After pulling out of the All-Star Game on Friday, Rodriguez proceeded to homer in all three games against the Detroit Tigers. Not only did he homer, he walked four times in the series, and went 6-for-12. The Mariners swept the Tigers to finish the first half at 51-45. They are 1.5 games up on the Tampa Bay Rays for the third and final wild card spot.

That's 3️⃣ straight games with a homer for Juliooooo! #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/1wwUVSvoy7
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) July 13, 2025

It certainly looks like we could be on the precipice of the annual 'second-half Julio' turnaround that has defined this career thus far, and the Mariners could use it if they are going to make the playoffs for the first time since 2022.

What is the reason for Rodriguez's sudden turnaround? Well, we've discussed his approach changes in July here, but perhaps it's simpler - and more superstitious than that.

If you ask prominent sports media personality Bill Simmons of The Ringer, he'll tell you that he's the reason for a looming Rodriguez breakout. He posted the following on social media on Saturday night.

We finally traded away Julio in our AL Keeper League after 1 1/2 frustrating years so get ready for him to hit .380 with 20 HR and 25 SB the rest of the way. Congrats in advance to Mariners fans.

We finally traded away Julio in our AL Keeper League after 1 1/2 frustrating years so get ready for him to hit .380 with 20 HR and 25 SB the rest of the way. Congrats in advance to Mariners fans.
— Bill Simmons (@BillSimmons) July 12, 2025