J-Rod

J-Rod Ben Van Houten for Seattle Mariners

ON PURSUING A BASEBALL CAREER

As soon as I saw myself with a chance to play professionally, that was my only goal. I was like 14 or 15 years old, and that’s when I decided I wanted to be a major leaguer. My biggest role model growing up in the Dominican Republic was my dad, even more than any baseball players or anybody else. He taught me the game and made me the person I am today.

ON THE JOY OF PLAYING AT T-MOBILE PARK

The special thing about this park is how genuine the fans are—they make it feel like home. In any city, I feel like there are always people that come out to support the team, but here in Seattle, the fans are like a family—the whole city just rides with the team. I love that about the fans here.

ON WHICH IS MORE THRILLING: HITTING A HOME RUN OR STEALING A BASE?

They’re both really exciting—it just depends on what moment they happen. But if I have to pick, I’d definitely say a home run.

ON PLAYING IN SEATTLE FOR YEARS TO COME

I love the vibe of the city, and how green it is. I love the water, and the whole look of the skyline. I definitely recommend visiting the Space Needle (400 Broad St)—I took my parents there and they had a great time. And I’m just looking forward to all the upside we have with the team, with the city, and everything that’s going to come my way living and playing in Seattle.

ON GOALS FOR THE 2023 SEASON

I feel like the team is ready to compete—that this year we’re gonna go out there, be the best that we can possibly be, and keep representing the city. And for me, I just take it one day at a time.