MLB Trade Deadline: 3 teams that could go above and beyond to acquire Randy Arozarena's services from RaysÂ
The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly looking to trade Randy Arozarena as the outfielder has battled through his struggles and is looking for a strong finish in the second half of the season. As per reports, he has already garnered a lot of interest from multiple teams.
The season started in the worst possible ways for the Cuban batter who managed a substandard .112 batting average in April, going 11-98. There was little improvement in May, but the 2023 All-Star silenced all critics with a .298 average in June which also included a 19-game on-base streak.
With the Rays currently fourth in the AL East with a 48-48 record and 10 games behind the leaders Baltimore Orioles, they have emerged as potential sellers at the trade deadline.
Here's a closer look at three possible destinations for Randy Arozarena ahead of the trade deadline on July 30.
3 possible destinations for Tampa Bay Rays' Randy Arozarena ahead of trade deadline
#1. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers outfield has suffered a lot this season with James Outman and Chris Taylor performing well below expectations. The bottom of the batting lineup hasn't had good returns either and it is quite plausible that LA tries to bring in Randy Arozarena to lighten the load and increase its batting depth.
The Rays OF also hit 10 home runs in the 2020 postseason. With the NL West-leading club (56-41) expected to make a deep run in the playoffs this season, they will hope for a similar show if they do sign him.
#2. Seattle Mariners
Unlike the Dodgers, the Mariners have been close trading partners to the Rays. In recent years, Seattle signed the likes of Luke Raley and Diogo Castillo from the east coast. With the Mariners (52-46) engaged in a see-saw battle with the Astros for the top of the AL West standings, they are in contention to sign an impact bat.
However, as per MLB Insider Jon Morosi, serious discussions are yet to take place between the two franchises. But with the deadline fast approaching, things could change in no time.
#3. Philadelphia Phillies
An outside contender that could be a perfect fit for Randy Arozarena is the Phillies. With an injury-laden lineup desperate to get some right-handed at-bats, Philadelphia seems like a plausible destination. The NL East leaders (62-34) need players to fill in the gaps and getting the Cuban now on a short-term deal could be the cheapest option with his annual salary likely to rise to $10-12 million in 2025 from his current $9 million.