Dodgers Could Pursue $71 Million All-Star Outfielder in Trade With Mariners
The Los Angeles Dodgers need an upgrade in left field sooner rather than later. Michael Conforto isn’t getting it done, and the Dodgers can’t continue to trot him out there on a daily basis. They’re setting themselves up for failure in a competitive National League West. There aren’t many options available for them, but there’s one player the Dodgers should be pursuing:
Seattle Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena. In his first 66 at-bats, Arozarena is slashing .212/.381/.485 and is starting to heat up in Seattle. However, his advanced numbers show his batting average should be a lot higher. Arozarena has an OPS+ of 165 through the first 19 games, a hard-hit rate of 48.9%, .415 xwOBA and a 161 wRC+ which shows he’s been dealt the worst luck in the early stages of the season.
However, he’s made it count when he does get on base with his .866 OPS. If the former 2021 Rookie of the Year and 2023 All-Star can keep his strong form at the plate, he could become one of the hottest commodities at the trade deadline. Arozarena is making $11.3 million this year before reaching his final arbitration year next season. He’s currently set to become a free agent in 2027, but that could change.
If he is traded to a contender like the Dodgers, they could choose to extend the 30-year-old outfielder. Spotrac projects him to sign a five-year, $96 million extension to provide him an average annual value of $19.2 million per year. The Dodgers’ lineup would certainly benefit from acquiring Arozarena, and it’s a move that should be on their radar.
