LISTEN: ESPN's Jeff Passan: Julio Rodríguez's Ceiling is Griffey in His Prime

MLB Insider made comments as part of radio spot with "Brock and Salk"

Julio Rodríguez signed a long-term contract extension in 2022 that could keep him in Seattle for the rest of his career.

He's clearly a player that the Mariners believe in and want to build around.

After winning the American League Rookie of the Year, he's also clearly a star that is on his way to becoming one of the best players in baseball.

After being put on the cover of the "Sports Illustrated" preview issue, he's also clearly on his way to being one of the faces of the sport.

But just how good can he get? And how big can his star get? ESPN MLB Insider Jeff Passan gave some very lofty praise on Tuesday as part of a radio spot with "Brock and Salk" on Seattle Sports 710.

That certainly is something to hear. Ken Griffey Jr. is among the best players in baseball history and he IS the best player in Mariners history. He hit 630 total home runs, helped save baseball in Seattle through the magical 1995 Mariners run, and made baseball cool in the '90s with his iconic backwards hat look. He starred in movies like "Little Big League," and was at the centerpiece of multiple video games bearing his name.

Griffey Jr. was a true superstar and international icon. If that's really the ceiling for Rodríguez? Then Rodríguez is a guaranteed Hall of Famer -- and more.

Rodríguez hit .284 last year with 28 home runs and 75 RBIs. He also stole 25 bases and could steal more this year given the rule adjustments to pickoff attempts and the bigger bases.

The Mariners have lofty goals this season after winning a playoff series last year for the first time in 20 years. If they are to reach the team's ultimate goal of winning the World Series, Rodríguez will be an integral part of it all.

The Mariners open the season Thursday at 7:10 PST vs. the Cleveland Guardians.