X-rays on Mariners outfielder Julio Rodríguez’s right hand came back negative after the rookie was hit on the hand by a 97-mph fastball Saturday night, general manager Jerry Dipoto said Sunday. Rodríguez played most of the rest of the game, but exited in the ninth inning to get tests done to see whether there was any damage.
Seattle ultimately defeated the Astros when Abraham Toro, who pinch-hit for Rodríguez in the final inning, hit a two-run single off Ryan Pressly to give Seattle a 5–4 lead.
After the game, manager Scott Servais said the team was hoping nothing broke in Rodríguez’s right hand.
“We’ll pray that it’s not broken,” he said, via Fox 13’s Alyssa Charlston. “Back of the hand injury, he was not comfortable holding a bat so we'll wait and see.”
Still, if Rodríguez has to miss some time, Jarred Kelenic is a candidate to replace him on the active roster. However, with no broken bones, Rodríguez probably wouldn't be out too long.
Rodríguez has been a revelation for the Mariners, totaling 18 home runs and 57 RBIs with 21 stolen bases and an .816 OPS in his rookie season with Seattle. He represented the team at the All-Star Game and is trying to lead the Mariners to their first playoff appearance since 2001.
