History of Randy Arozarena in Timeline

Randy Arozarena is a Cuban-born Mexican professional baseball outfielder currently playing for the Tampa Bay Rays in MLB. He previously played for the St. Louis Cardinals. Arozarena has represented Mexico in international baseball competitions after previously playing for Cuban youth teams, demonstrating his skills on both national and international stages.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

February 28, 1995: Randy Arozarena Born

On February 28, 1995, Randy Lia Arozarena González was born in Cuba. He later became a professional baseball outfielder.

Others born on this day/year

2011: U-16 Baseball World Cup

In 2011, Arozarena represented Cuba at the youth level in the U-16 Baseball World Cup.

2013: Played for Vegueros de Pinar del Río

During the 2013-14 season, Arozarena played for Vegueros de Pinar del Río of the Cuban National Series.

2013: U-18 Baseball World Cup

In 2013, Arozarena played for Cuba in the U-18 Baseball World Cup in Taichung, where the team won the bronze medal.

2013: Last Ray to Win Rookie of the Year

In 2013, Wil Myers was the last Ray to win Rookie of the Year before Arozarena won the award in 2021.

2014: Played for Vegueros de Pinar del Río

During the 2014-15 season, Arozarena played for Vegueros de Pinar del Río of the Cuban National Series.

June 2015: Fled Cuba

In June 2015, shortly after his father's death, Arozarena fled Cuba on a small boat to Mexico, seeking to establish a career in professional baseball.

2015: Defected to Mexico

In 2015, Arozarena defected from Cuba to Mexico on a small boat, a pivotal decision in his pursuit of a baseball career.

August 1, 2016: Signed with St. Louis Cardinals

On August 1, 2016, Arozarena signed with the St. Louis Cardinals as an international free agent for $1.25 million, marking a significant milestone in his professional career.

2016: Played in Various Mexican Leagues

In 2016, Arozarena had brief stints in the Mérida Winter League, the Norte de México League, and with the Toros de Tijuana of the Mexican League.

2016: Signed with Cardinals

In 2016, Arozarena signed with the St. Louis Cardinals, beginning his MLB career.

2017: US Debut and All-Star Selection

In 2017, Arozarena debuted in the United States with the Palm Beach Cardinals and was named a Florida State League All-Star, before advancing to the Springfield Cardinals in July.

2018: All-Star Futures Game Selection

In 2018, Arozarena was selected to the 2018 All-Star Futures Game. He also helped Memphis win the Pacific Coast League title and was named a co-MVP of the PCL playoffs.

2018: Daughter Born in Mexico

In 2018, one of Arozarena's daughters was born in Mexico.

August 12, 2019: Cardinals Contract Selected

On August 12, 2019, the Cardinals selected Arozarena's contract and promoted him to the major leagues, marking his official entry into MLB.

2019: Injured List and Return to Action

In 2019, Arozarena began the season on the injured list due to a fractured hand sustained during spring training. He returned to action in May with Springfield before being promoted back to Memphis in June.

2019: MLB Debut

In 2019, Arozarena made his Major League Baseball debut, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

January 9, 2020: Traded to Tampa Bay Rays

On January 9, 2020, Arozarena was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, along with José Martínez and a draft pick, changing his trajectory in MLB.

November 23, 2020: Arrested in Mexico

On November 23, 2020, Arozarena was arrested in Mexico's Yucatán state for an alleged kidnapping attempt involving his daughter, creating a personal controversy.

2020: Intention to Play for Mexico

In 2020, Arozarena announced his intention to play for Mexico in international baseball competitions, citing his connection to the country and his daughter.

2020: Traded to Rays and Postseason Record

In 2020, Arozarena was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays and set an MLB record with 10 home runs in a single postseason. He also earned the ALCS MVP award.

2020: Film Based on Life Being Developed

In 2020, a film based on Arozarena's life was in development, though it later fell through.

2020: Record-Breaking Postseason Performance

In the 2020 postseason, Arozarena had a record-breaking performance, including setting a rookie record for most home runs and being named ALCS MVP.

2021: AL Rookie of the Year Award

In 2021, Arozarena won the AL Rookie of the Year Award, marking a significant honor in his career.

2021: Second Daughter Born

In 2021, Arozarena's second daughter was born.

2021: Home Run and Stolen Base in Playoff Game

In 2021, during Game 1 of the ALDS, Arozarena became the first player to hit a home run and steal home in the same playoff game.

October 2022: MLB Announcement to Play for Mexico

In October 2022, MLB announced that Arozarena would play for Mexico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, solidifying his commitment to representing Mexico.

2022: Became a Mexican Citizen

In 2022, Arozarena became a Mexican citizen, allowing him to represent Mexico in international baseball competitions.

2022: Stolen Bases and Caught Stealing

In 2022, Arozarena stole 32 bases, tying for third in the majors, but also led the major leagues by being caught stealing 12 times, showcasing a mix of success and challenges on the basepaths.

2022: Estimated Release of Biopic

In 2022, it was anticipated that a biopic on Arozarena's life would release.

May 21, 2023: All-Tournament Award

On May 21, 2023, Arozarena received his All-Tournament award from Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard at a Rays game, recognizing his outstanding performance in the World Baseball Classic.

2023: Confirmed Film Had Fallen Through

In 2023, Arozarena confirmed that the film based on his life had fallen through, though he still hoped to make a movie about his journey.

2023: World Baseball Classic

In 2023, Arozarena played for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic, showcasing his talent on the international stage.

2023: All-Star Selection

In 2023, Arozarena was named to his first All-Star Game, starting in left field, marking a significant achievement in his career.

2023: All-Star Selection and Home Run Derby

In 2023, Arozarena was voted an All-Star and competed in the Home Run Derby, reaching the final round. He also achieved his first three straight 20-20 seasons.