The 2022 Seattle Mariners were an interesting team to watch in 2022.
They did something that no Mariners team had done since 2001, reaching the postseason.
The team was buoyed by strong performances out of their young core of players, specifically from rookie Julio Rodriguez.
Rodriguez hit .284 with 28 home runs and 75 RBI during the regular season and helped lead the Mariners to the ALDS.
Last night, he was crowned the American League Rookie of the Year, finishing ahead of Baltimore Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman and Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan.
On Twitter, Rodriguez expressed his excitement over winning the award and thanked Mariners fans for their support throughout the 2022 season.
What a year!🤞🏽💙 thank you for everybody that made this possible especially to the mariners fans! YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!💙 Let’s keep having fun in the PNW and keep BREAKING THROUGH!!!!🔥🔥🔥 #humbleandhungryyyy
— Julio Rodriguez🇩🇴🦁 (@JRODshow44) November 15, 2022
J-Rod Wins ROY
Rodriguez was the favorite to win the award heading into Monday, so it ultimately comes as no surprise.
He also earned All-Star honors and was a participant in this year’s Home Run Derby.
Rodriguez had 56 extra-base hits during the regular season, posted an .854 OPS and logged 260 total bases.
He even became a member of the 20-20 club, stealing 25 bases.
Rodriguez’s youthful energy rubbed off on Mariners fans, who instantly fell in love with their rookie phenom and enjoyed sharing the journey with him.
And when Rodriguez was announced as the winner of the AL Rookie of the Year Award, he had a chance to celebrate with his entire family, who were present during the award show.
Rodriguez had a season to remember, helping carry the Mariners back to the postseason for the first time since 2001.
He was also named a Silver Slugger in 2022.
NEXT: Julio Rodriguez Has Seen The Odds Go Well In His Favor