Emerson’s contact quality, which was quite poor during his big-league time, may be a symptom of his wrist injury. His average exit velocity was a paltry 86.7 mph, and his hard-hit rate was a mere 31.2%. In comparison, the MLB averages are 88.8 mph and 38.7%, respectively. Emerson’s history of strong exit velocities in the minors only serves to highlight the discrepancy between his performance in the big leagues and his potential.

The Mariners have called up infielder Brock Rodden to replace Emerson, who will share shortstop duties with utility man Leo Rivas for the time being. Rodden, 26, started at shortstop and went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI in his MLB debut Friday night.

Friday’s walk-off loss (HOU 10, SEA 7 in 10 innings) was the Mariners’ seventh in their last eight games. They are 10-22 in their last 32 games and 57-66 on the season. The Mariners are six games behind the Houston Astros in the AL West and 3 ½ games behind the third wild card spot with six teams ahead of them.

The Mariners signed Emerson to an eight-year contract worth $95 million in March. At the time, it was the largest contract ever for a player yet to make his MLB debut.