Mariners' Star Outfielder Leaves Game Late Wednesday Night

Seattle Mariners star outfielder Julio Rodriguez left Wednesday night's game against the Baltimore Orioles due to an undisclosed injury, as first reported by Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times. Rodríguez exited after striking out to end the sixth inning.

Mariners Give Update on Julio Rodriguez Injury

Mariners manager Dan Wilson later clarified the issue, saying Rodriguez had a spasm in his hamstring, according to Divish. Wilson explained the decision to pull his center fielder as a precaution.

"A little bit of a spasm in his hamstring," Wilson said. "Thought it best to get him out with what we've got going on right now in terms of injuries. Thought it was smart to get him out there and give it a little bit of a rest."

The Mariners lost the game to the Orioles 5-3, but this is bigger-picture news for a club that owns a one-and-a-half-game lead over the Athletics in the American League West at 38-37 overall. Any extended absence for Rodriguez would be a significant blow.

The timing is notable, as Seattle just got healthier earlier this week with major reinforcements. Superstar slugger Cal Raleigh and shortstop J.P. Crawford both returned from the injured list. Raleigh has recorded a hit in each game with two total RBIs since his return.

The Mariners have been an absolute juggernaut at home in the brutal hitting confines of T-Mobile Park, ranking first in baseball in weighted runs created plus (wRC+) at home against right-handed pitching, which makes them an intriguing candidate down the stretch if they can stay healthy. For now, Seattle and its fans are holding their collective breath, awaiting any Rodriguez update as they try to keep the division at arm's length.