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In 1958, the San Francisco Giants opened a new era in baseball, having relocated the preceding off-season. A seldom-used bonus baby (in those days you had to keep them on the 25-man roster) named Mike McCormick, at age 20, was tabbed as a starter in his third season. Joining him on the squad were two talented Latin players, Orlando Cepeda and Felipe Alou, and a 3rd baseman, Jimmy Davenport.
In the 1959 seasons, these young stars were joined by Willie McCovey and Jose Pagan.
The following season, they were joined by Felipe Alou's brother Matty and a young Dominican pitcher, Juan Marichal.
In 1961, they added two catchers, Tom Haller and Johnny Orsino. Orsino would OPS .816 in his rookie year.
In 1962, after adding Manny Mota and Gaylord Perry, the only veteran position players were Willie Mays and Harvey Kuenn, and the staff had three experienced hurlers of note: Billy Pierce, Billy O'Dell, and Stu Miller.
They won the NL pennant and went to the ninth inning of game 7 before losing the World Series to the Yankees.
11 rookies were brought up in 4 years, completely changing the team. Did they have the Say Hey kid? Of course. But in so many other respects they resemble what the Mariners are doing now. (and, of course, we do have Ichiro)
Loaded opponents (Braves with Aaron and Mathews, Dodgers with Drysdale and Koufax, Reds with Robinson and Pinson)? check.
Difficult schedule (try flying a DC-3, or even a DC-8/early 707 sometime instead of a 737)? check.
Tacoma farm team (they moved from Phoenix to Tacoma in 1960)? check.
Rookies who were mature in attitude and became leaders? check.
Yes, it took four years. (We are comparatively in the second or third year). BUT--
It was fun even in 1960, because it was apparent that the team was getting better and that kids at Tacoma were on fire. Count how many names above ended up in the Hall of Fame, as All-Stars, as managers and coaches. Pretty spiffy, I'd say.
I want one more round, if you please. And although my parents are still alive at 94 and 90,  I don't want to wait too long!