Seattle Mariners have awarded their star rookie, Julio Rodriguez, with a lucrative long-term contract for his remarkable performances this season. Earlier on Friday, the Mariners and Rodriguez agreed upon a 14-year contract for a guaranteed $210 million.

Be it Julio Rodriguez, Ronald Acuna Jr., or even Juan Soto, MLB franchises have been taking big bets on young talents over the last few years. If the Mariners slugger continues to perform at the highest level, his contract value could go up to $450 million.

Julio Rodriguez has been the top performer for the Mariners this season. No doubt about that. While the ongoing MLB season is yet to be over, he already has 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases to his name.

The Mariners announced the new deal when Julio Rodriguez came to bat in the ballpark

The Mariners and Julio Rodriguez agreed upon the new contract before playing the Cleveland Guardians on Friday. When Rodriguez came to bat, the Mariners displayed an a-minute-long video to announce his extension. It said, “Here to stay.”

Eventually, the Mariners also won the game against the Guardians. When talking about Rodriguez’s comment, the Mariners rookie said he always wanted to spend his whole career for the Mariners.?

?This is a great day for my family and me,? Rodriguez said. ?I have always wanted to spend my whole career here, in Seattle, with this team, and with these fans. I want to win here, in Seattle? I am so happy to be here.?

READ MORE: BREAKING: Seattle Mariners and Star Rookie Julio Rodriguez on Verge of Finalizing 14-Year Contract Extension That Could ?Grow To Well Over $400 Million?

There are still over 35 league games to play this season, and if things do not go south, Julio Rodriguez can better his record. Given his consistent form from the plate, the Mariners slugger is the frontrunner for the American League MVP.

Not to forget that he is also the runner-up of the 2022 Home Derby. Notably, the Giants outfielder Juan Soto won the Home Run Derby this year.

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Considering it is still his first season, do you think the Mariners could have waited a couple more years before offering a long-term contract to Rodriguez?