Randy Arozarena. Image: MLB.com
The Seattle Mariners have made a significant move by acquiring Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena in a trade announced Thursday night, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The deal brings Arozarena, a prominent player known for his impressive postseason performances, to the Mariners as they push for a playoff spot.
In exchange, the Rays will receive minor-league prospects from the Mariners. This includes outfielder Aidan Smith and right-handed pitcher Brody Hopkins, as reported by Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. Additionally, the Rays will get a third minor league player, whose identity will be revealed later.
Arozarena, who is currently in his fifth season with the Rays, is having a challenging year. His batting average has dipped to a career-low .213, with 15 home runs and 36 RBIs so far. Despite these struggles, Arozarena is a well-regarded player, having made his first All-Star team last season and playing a key role in leading the Rays to the playoffs.
Arozarena first gained national attention during the 2020 postseason, where he was named ALCS MVP as the Rays advanced to the World Series. He continued to impress by winning the AL Rookie of the Year award in his first full season in 2021. His previous successes highlight his potential and ability to contribute significantly to his new team.
On the other side of the trade, Aidan Smith, a 20-year-old outfielder drafted by the Mariners in the fourth round last year, has been performing well with their High-A affiliate. He boasts a .284 batting average, nine home runs, and 42 RBIs this season. Smith was ranked as the Mariners’ No. 12 prospect by MLB.com.
Brody Hopkins, the right-handed pitcher included in the trade, is another promising prospect. At 22 years old, he has made 18 starts with the Mariners’ High-A team, holding a 4-3 record and a 2.90 ERA over more than 83 innings.
With this trade, Arozarena joins a Mariners team that is fighting for a playoff berth, aiming for their second postseason appearance in the last 23 years. Currently holding a 53-51 record, the Mariners are second in the AL West and are gearing up for a crucial three-game series against the Chicago White Sox. They remain 3.5 games behind the final AL wild card spot as the MLB trade deadline approaches on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET.
