The Mariners are set to acquire Randy Arozarena from the Rays for outfielder Aidan Smith, RHP Brody Hopkins and a PTBN.
That definitely solves one issue with Seattle’s lineup. Arozarena will presumably play left field in Seattle, resulting in more time at first base and DH for Luke Raley. It’s not great for his fantasy value, as he’s going from a poor park from hitters to perhaps the worst in the game, but neither does it figure to be a disaster. Smith, the Mariners’ fourth-round pick last year, has upped his stock by hitting .284/.402/.470 as a 18-year-old in high-A ball this season. He’s a couple of years away, but he has a chance to become a quality outfielder. We assume the PTBN will also be a significant prospect. The Rays could call up Kameron Misner to help out in the outfield against righties with Arozarena gone.