The New York Yankees kicked off the 2026 MLB regular season with a visit to the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, March 25. The Los Angeles Dodgers are the clear favorites to win the World Series, priced at +230 at DraftKings Sportsbook. The Seattle Mariners, however, have caught the eye of SportsLine expert Angelo Magliocca, who has backed them to win the AL title at +1200. Magliocca's optimism is rooted in the Mariners' impressive starting rotation and bullpen, which he believes will propel them to the top of the league.
Cal Raleigh will be crucial to the Mariners' success, as he looks to replicate his incredible 2025 form. Julio Rodriguez, on the other hand, is expected to take a significant step forward after a near-six WAR season last year. Rodriguez's impressive performance in the second half of 2025, where he slugged 21 home runs, suggests he is on track for a strong start to the 2026 season. The Mariners' lineup also features Josh Naylor, Randy Arozarena, and newcomer Brendan Donovan, all of whom are expected to make a significant impact offensively. At the back end of the bullpen, Seattle boasts some of the best talent in the game, with Andres Munoz, Eduard Bazardo, Gabe Speier, and Matt Brash.
Julio Rodriguez's potential breakout season has significant implications for the Mariners' World Series chances. If he can live up to expectations, Seattle's offense could become a dominant force in the AL. Rodriguez's growth could also make the Mariners a more formidable opponent for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are currently favored to win the World Series. A strong start from Rodriguez could be the catalyst for a deep postseason run from the Mariners.
