Mariners' Julio Rodríguez has exactly the right inspiration for 2nd half surge

Houston Astros v Seattle Mariners | Alika Jenner/GettyImagesThe All-Star break often offers players a brief chance to recharge, but for Julio Rodríguez, it was more of a reset. After being selected as an All-Star for the third time in just four seasons, the Seattle Mariners’ center fielder made a surprising decision. Instead of suiting up for the Midsummer Classic and basking in the national spotlight, Rodríguez chose to step away for some much-needed time off.

It might have been the best decision he’s made all year.

“Just exactly what I needed,” Rodríguez told MLB.com’s Daniel Kramer ahead of the Mariners’ second-half opener, a resounding 6-1 win over the Houston Astros. “I feel like I…