1 year later, Mariners' Randy Arozarena trade ranks among Jerry Dipoto's biggest wins

On July 24, 2024, the Seattle Mariners made a move that drew mixed reactions across the league. They traded for Tampa Bay Rays star outfielder Randy Arozarena, sending young talents Aidan Smith, Brody Hopkins, and later Ty Cummings to Tampa in return. A classic Jerry Dipoto swing, aggressive and full of upside.

One year later, it’s clear that Dipoto knocked it out of the park.

While the Mariners narrowly missed the postseason in 2024, that had nothing to do with Arozarena. He’s been everything Seattle hoped for, and then some. After playing his 162nd game in a Mariners uniform this season on August 1, Arozarena’s production stands tall as one of the more impactful year-long stretches than many realize. Since arriving in Seattle, he’s been worth 4.2 WAR, ranking him among the top 12 hitters in the American League during that span.

Arozarena’s first year in Seattle has been nothing short of elite

He's also doing it with flair. Arozarena joined an elite club in Mariners history, becoming just the fifth player ever to notch a 20-homer, 20-stolen base season within his first 162 games with the team. And the numbers don’t stop there. Since June 28, he’s been on an absolute heater, slashing .289 with 14 home runs.

Yet he continues to fly under the radar. In an era where slumps get louder headlines than hot streaks, Arozarena’s strong play has gone largely unnoticed outside of the Pacific Northwest. But those paying attention know just how valuable he’s been. His 2025 All-Star selection shouldn’t be considered a courtesy invite — it was well-earned, and long overdue recognition for a player who’s put in the work day in and day out.

Beyond the stats, Arozarena has brought an infectious energy to Seattle’s clubhouse. He plays with a confidence and charisma that resonates with fans and teammates alike. Whether he’s firing up the dugout after a clutch hit or swiping a bag with a smile on his face, Arozarena is the sparkplug every contending team craves.

Unfortunately, the clock is ticking. With his final year of arbitration looming in 2026 before he hits free agency, there’s no guarantee Seattle will have Arozarena beyond next season. That makes his current presence all the more important, and all the more reason for fans to soak in every moment. Because players like this don’t come around often, and they don’t stay forever.

So yes, Jerry Dipoto has made a lot of bold trades in his Mariners tenure. But one year later, the Randy Arozarena deal is looking like one of his finest. A calculated gamble that paid off with star production, clubhouse leadership, and All-Star pedigree, the kind of move that could turn good teams into great ones.

The Mariners intend to make a real push for October in 2025, Arozarena will be right in the middle of it, where he’s been all along.