Randy Arozarena’s impressive performance at the World Baseball Classic has sparked debate about whether he can win the tournament’s MVP award. The Tampa Bay Rays outfielder has driven in nine runs and hit five doubles in 14 at-bats, with an impressive .500 batting average.
Players from other teams such as Shohei Ohtani, Anthony Santander, and Arozarena's teammate Joey Meneses are also putting in strong performances for the tournament's MVP award. However, if he continues to play at his current level, he could end up taking home the trophy.
Rating Randy Arozarena’s WBC performances
1 - Mexico vs. Canada
Arozarena was instrumental in helping Team Mexico clinch Pool C, his standout performance in the 10-3 win over Canada saw him hit two doubles and drive in five runs, including a bases-clearing double in the sixth inning that sent his Mexican teammates steaming out of the dugout.
2 - Mexico vs. Colombia
Despite Mexico’s defeat against Colombia in their first World Baseball Classic game, Arozarena hit an impressive 2-run homer, hit a double, and got on base twice in four at-bats. Mexico lost their first game of the Pool-play in extra innings after Colombia drove in their ghost runner in the 10th inning.
3 - Mexico vs. USA
Arozarena and teammate Joey Meneses were local heroes during their Sunday game against Team USA. After Mexico’s defeat against Colombia, the team was obligated to upset the star-studded USA to stay in the competition. Randy Arozarena got on base in 3 of 5 at-bats, with 3 RBIs and 2 doubles. Mexico upset the pool’s favorites 11-5.
4 - Mexico vs. Great Britain
In what was Mexico’s most difficult win, Arozarena was unable to hit during a very defensive game against Great Britain. With only 3 at-bats, Arozarena was able to negotiate a BB. Randy Arozarena’s teammate Alexis Wilson drove in the final run in the 7th inning to help Mexico take the 2-1 win over Great Britain.
Randy Arozarena’s impact on Team Mexico
Randy Arozarena’s impact goes beyond his impressive stats. He has become a fan favorite, with chants of “MVP! MVP! MVP!” ringing out from the stands. Arozarena has embraced the love from the fans, signing autographs for them during a pitching change in left field.
Mexico manager Benji Gil has praised Arozarena for embodying the traits most valued by his adopted nation, including his character and energy on the field.
Regardless of whether Arozarena wins the MVP award or not, his impact on the tournament and on Mexican baseball has been significant. He has become a symbol of resilience and determination, and his success is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance.