Three potential landing spots for Randy Arozarena

Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena is not living up to expectations this season.

Arozarena had been a steady contributor for the Rays over the past three years. He averaged a .264/.349/.443 batting line with 21 homers and 31 doubles while stealing 25 bases over that span. This season has been a different story, as Arozarena has struggled to a .178/.291/.326 batting line in his 282 plate appearances, hitting nine homers and nine doubles.

There is more to Arozarena than his regular season numbers. He has been a force in the postseason, posting a .336/.414/.690 batting line in 128 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and five doubles. Arozarena was named the MVP of the 2020 ALCS when he had nine hits, including four homers, to propel the Rays to their second American League pennant. Add in his two more years of team control and Arozarena could bring a haul back to Tampa Bay.

A disappointing season for the Rays (34-38, last in AL East) and Arozarena's rising salary could put the former All-Star on the trade block. Let's look at three possible landing spots.

Atlanta Braves

The Braves' outfield situation has become a problem. Ronald Acuna Jr. is lost for the season due to a torn ACL. Michael Harris II landed on the injured list with a grade 2 hamstring strain, something that is expected to sideline Harris "for a long time." Once a strength, the Braves outfield starts Adam Duvall, Jarred Kelenic and Ramon Laureano from left to right.

Arozarena could be part of the solution this season and into the future. Duvall and Laureano are slated for free agency at the end of the year, leaving a gap in the outfield. If Acuna and Harris are able to return to form, the Braves could have the best outfield in baseball going forward if they bring Arozarena on board.

Kansas City Royals

The Royals (41-32) have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball. A revamped rotation and clutch hitting have put the Royals in the middle of the playoff hunt. However, the Royals are still a flawed team, needing help in the bullpen and outfield.

Outfield is a particular need for the Royals. Heading into Sunday, Royals outfielders had posted a .212/.275/.360 batting line - ranking 29th in batting average, last in on-base percentage and 24th in slugging. The Royals are known to be looking for help in the outfield and had been linked to Luis Robert recently. Although Arozarena has struggled, his track record of success and ability to reach another level in the postseason make him a worthwhile target.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Despite spending over $1 billion during the offseason, the Dodgers have several holes. The biggest hole may be in left, where Chris Taylor has been dreadful. He has posted a .108/.200/.151 batting line in 106 plate appearances, hitting one homer and one double. The Dodgers need more, especially now that Mookie Betts has a broken bone in his left wrist.

Arozarena would not only fill the void in left field but he could be another piece to a championship puzzle. Although the Dodgers have reached the postseason every year since 2013, their only World Series title came in the pandemic shortened 2020 season. One title is not enough with their payroll and talent. Arozarena would give the Dodgers another dangerous bat that they need.