Mariners’ left fielder Randy Arozarena drew significant attention after last night’s series opener against the Rays in Tampa Bay. Arozarena went 1-for-4 at the plate as Seattle lost 7-2. A viral highlight showed Arozarena failing to pursue a fly ball that landed in the foul zone just a few meters away, sparking widespread discussion.
Many fans responded to the video, criticizing Arozarena, who is on $15.6 million, 1-year deal (via Spotrac), for losing credibility as a leader after he failed to catch a routine fly ball. Although sportscasters noted Arozarena’s restraint in pursuing the ball because of his hamstring injury, fans were angry, viewing his behavior as a lack of competitive spirit on the field.
that is a lot worse than the radio made it sound
Randy Arozarena Said He Needed To Play With a Little Precaution
After the game, Arozarena was asked about his hamstring issue. Through his interpreter, Freddy Llanos, the Cuban slugger said his hamstring was fine but that he needed to be cautious while playing. Regarding the fly ball incident, Arozarena explained it wasn’t due to his hamstring; he simply didn’t reach the ball in time.
“My hamstring is fine. I think I’ve got to play with a little precaution. I’m trying to play as long as I can in terms of the season, trying to stay as healthy as I can… No, I just didn’t get to it. It wasn’t because of the hamstring. I just didn’t get to it,” Arozarena said.
Arozarena has a .286 batting average, with 10 home runs, 42 RBIs, and 91 hits in 87 games this season. The LF is the Mariners’ sole representative for the Midsummer Classic, marking the third All-Star selection of his pro career.
Seattle is currently 47-48 on the season, a win shy of .500 and 1.5 games behind the AL West divisional leaders, the Texas Rangers.
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