Julio Rodríguez Powers Mariners Past White Sox 8-6 With Three-Run Homer: Seattle Holds Off Chicago Rally

Thursday, August 7th, 2025

Julio Rodríguez Powers Mariners Past White Sox with Three-Run Homer

Julio Rodríguez delivered a pivotal three-run home run as part of a five-run outburst in the second inning, propelling the Seattle Mariners to an 8-6 victory over the Chicago White Sox at T-Mobile Park.

Rodríguez's Historic Homer Fueled by Raleigh's Bat

Rodríguez, who recently became the first player in MLB history to record 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in each of his first four seasons, launched his home run off White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon. Cal Raleigh immediately preceded Rodríguez’s long ball with a two-run single, setting the table for the Mariners' big inning.

Early Offense Gives Mariners Control

Seattle jumped out to a 7-1 lead after just two innings, with Josh Naylor contributing a two-run homer in the first inning. The early surge gave starting pitcher George Kirby plenty of breathing room on the mound.

Kirby Shines on the Hill

George Kirby delivered a quality start, pitching six innings and allowing two runs on five hits while striking out nine White Sox batters. Kirby earned his seventh win of the season, giving the Mariners a strong foundation against the visiting White Sox.

Late Rally by Chicago Falls Short

The White Sox made things interesting in the seventh inning after Kirby exited, scoring three runs off reliever Eduard Bazardo with home runs from Mike Tauchman and Lenyn Sosa. However, the Mariners responded in the bottom half of the seventh when Rodríguez scored on Eugenio Suárez’s sacrifice fly, pushing Seattle’s advantage to 8-5.

Muñoz Closes the Door Despite Scare

All-Star closer Andrés Muñoz conceded a solo home run to Michael A. Taylor in the ninth inning and allowed back-to-back walks, but quickly regained control to secure his 26th save of the season and seal the win for Seattle.

Key Moment

In the third inning, the White Sox loaded the bases with two outs against Kirby, but Curtis Mead flied out to end the threat and preserve the Mariners' early lead.

Key Stat

Josh Naylor became the first player since Bobby Brown with the San Diego Padres in 1983 to hit three home runs and steal eight bases in his first 12 games with a franchise.

Up Next

The series concludes as White Sox right-hander Shane Smith (3-7, 4.25 ERA) faces Mariners right-hander Logan Gilbert (3-4, 3.45 ERA) on Thursday afternoon.

In summary

Julio Rodríguez's three-run homer and the Mariners’ early offensive explosion powered Seattle to an 8-6 win over the Chicago White Sox. Despite a late rally by Chicago, strong performances from George Kirby and closer Andrés Muñoz made the difference. The victory keeps Seattle’s momentum going and sets up an exciting series finale.

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