Baseball has always been more than just a sport. For some, it is the way of life, culture, or setting new examples. While there are numerous examples where MLB shined outside the field, baseball writer Sarah Langs is the latest addition. The time she spent visiting the Mariners’ spring training and meeting star outfielder Julio Rodriguez offers a glimpse of why baseball is more than just a sport.

While MLB is no new to the social causes, Julio Rodriguez is a frontrunner here. So, what social angle is related to the visit of a baseball writer? Well, Langs is diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), affecting her normal movement. Her professional world is uninterrupted, though the differently-abled Langs got overwhelmed about how the team and Rodriguez welcomed her to the club. So, how are the Mariners arming themselves for the new season?

The other side of Julio Rodriguez 

Julio Rodríguez, the power hitter of the Mariners, has a long history of participating in charitable endeavors and social work through his foundation. Rodríguez founded the No Limits Foundation in 2024 to help impoverished children in Seattle, the Dominican Republic, and other places. According to Rodriguez, baseball has been a means of support for his family and a route out for him. He has claimed that it has provided him with chances to support his loved ones and others. While Sarah Langs also works towards the upliftment of ALS patients, expectedly, Rodriguez found a way to support the society.

Taking to the microblogging site X, Langs said, “Baseball is the best. Thanks so much to Julio and everyone involved with the Mariners for a wonderful day.” She seems quite overwhelmed with her experience at the Mariners’ spring training, and why not? Rodriguez clicked a picture with her, and the Mariners share the same over their X handle. It’s a good vibe all over! The Mariners are successful here, sharing the importance they give towards social equality by sharing the picture with Sarah Langs. Well, that’s what MLB is all about, and that’s what MLB should be known for, apart from the on-field rivalries. 

The Mariners are all set for this year

While the Mariners are doing a good job towards social upliftment, how’s their preparation for the new season? Julio Rodriguez just finished 2024 with 20 HRs and a .273 season. Although the 2x All-Star ended a good season last year, his lack of consistency in offering the expected performance was the only odd one out. This year, he is all set to take the outfield with Randy Arozarena and Victor Robles. This spring season is also going positive for Rodriguez, where he already completed a 2-run homer and had an RBI double.

The Mariners are also attempting to bounce back from an 85-77 record that saw them miss the playoffs by one game in 2024. This year, they will be looking to go further. The major advantage with them is their farm system, with 7 prospects ranked in the MLB Top 100 prospects. They got veteran Donovan Solano and Jorge Polanco for this year; other than that, the Mariners have retained most of their 2024 squad. While they have filled the major holes in their roster, it’s now time to see them getting unfolded on the ground. 

The Mariners have already won over Sarah Langs, and now, their performance this year is the only way to win over their fans. Their squad is contending enough for the same. What do you think about the Mariners’ potential this year? Share your views with us below.