Rowdy Tellez, born Ryan John Tellez on March 16, 1995, in Sacramento, California, is a professional baseball first baseman currently playing for the Seattle Mariners. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 270 pounds, he bats and throws left-handed.
Career Highlights:
- Toronto Blue Jays (2018–2020): Tellez made his MLB debut with the Blue Jays on September 5, 2018. He notably became the first player since 1913 to hit seven doubles in his first seven major league games.
- Milwaukee Brewers (2021–2022): Acquired by the Brewers in July 2021, Tellez contributed significantly during the 2021 season, hitting .272 with seven home runs and 28 RBIs. In 2022, he achieved a career-high 35 home runs, ranking fifth in the National League, and earned the NL Player of the Week Award in May.
- Pittsburgh Pirates (2024): Tellez signed a one-year, $3.2 million contract with the Pirates in December 2023. He played 131 games in 2024, batting .243 with 13 home runs and 56 RBIs. However, he was designated for assignment in September, missing a $200,000 bonus by just four plate appearances.
- Seattle Mariners (2025–Present): In February 2025, Tellez signed a minor league contract with the Mariners and earned a spot on their Opening Day roster. He is expected to receive significant playing time in 2025, bringing veteran experience and power-hitting to the team.
International Play:
Tellez represented Mexico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic as a designated hitter, posting a .280 batting average with one home run and five RBIs. He also had the option to play for Team Israel due to his Jewish heritage but chose Mexico for logistical reasons.
Recent Performance:
In the Mariners’ season opener on March 27, 2025, Tellez contributed with a single in his first at-bat, though the team lost 4-2 to the Athletics.