Latest AL MVP vote hides major development for Julio Rodríguez's Mariners future

American League Championship Series - Seattle Mariners v Toronto Blue Jays - Game Seven | Mark Blinch/GettyImagesIt was truly fascinating to see how the perception of Julio Rodríguez changed during the course of the 2025 season with the Seattle Mariners. From being considered overrated back in July after being named an All-Star, to last week's criticism that he was unfairly snubbed from winning his third AL Silver Slugger Award despite being arguably the best offensive center fielder in the game.

We can objectively acknowledge those who claim Rodríguez still hasn't quite lived up to his potential, but this is only because of just how ridiculously talented he truly is with the ceiling of a…