Randy Arozarena played at Tropicana Field for the first time since being traded to the Seattle Mariners. The outfielder expressed happiness about returning to the stadium where he spent much of his early career with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Arozarena spoke before Friday’s series opener against the Rays. “I’m very happy to come in here,” he said through interpreter Freddy Llanos. “This building gave me a lot. I know I have a lot of fans here.”
The 31-year-old was traded to Seattle in July 2024 after four seasons with Tampa Bay. During that time he hit 44 home runs at the Trop, more than any other player. He helped the Rays reach the 2020 World Series and won AL Rookie of the Year in 2021.
This season Arozarena has recorded 10 home runs, 19 stolen bases and a .287/.380/.455 slash line in 86 games. He was also named an All-Star for the third time last week.
Rays manager Kevin Cash noted Arozarena’s impact. “Randy did a lot of special things in this building, and he's always a joy to see,” Cash said.
