Tampa Bay Rays honor Mallex Smith’s tenure with Seattle Mariners

Mallex Smith had quite the storied tenure with the Seattle Mariners. It is not a surprise that the Tampa Bay Rays chose to honor his return to SafeCo Field.

It is always magical when a player returns to play in front of their former home town fans. For those who were truly legendary with that team, it is a chance for those fans to show their appreciation to their departed star. That is why the Tampa Bay Rays made sure to honor Mallex Smith and his time with the Seattle Mariners.

Smith had quite the lengthy tenure in Seattle. On January 11, 2017, he was acquired by the Mariners, along with Shae Simmons, in exchange for prospects Luiz Gohara and Thomas Burrows. Then, 77 long minutes later, he was sent to the Rays, along with Ryan Yarbrough and Carlos Vargas, for Drew Smyly. However, in that brief time, he made quite the impression.

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Given the length of his tenure, it makes sense that Smith could not stop raving about what it meant to be with the Mariners. His love of the fanbase, and their reciprocation, made for a truly special relationship. He made so many memories in the Mariners uniform, providing quite the litany of career defining moments. When thinking of the all time great Mariners, Smith is right there with Ken Griffey, Edgar Martinez, and Randy Johnson.

It is amazing that the Rays were able to pluck such a package for the oft injured Smyly. Yes, when he was on the mound, he was a solid pitcher, but that ability to stay healthy was the caveat. He never pitched a regular season game in Seattle, and has yet to make his debut with the Cubs this season. At best, Smyly will return at the end of August this season, but that may not be the case, depending on his rehab.

As for Smith, he has been a solid addition to the Rays. Finally in a starting role, he is showing that potential that made him such an exciting prospect. Heading into Friday’s action, he has produced a solid .279/.351/.370 batting line, hitting nine doubles and stealing 11 bases. He has also been solid in the outfield, providing decent defense at all three spots.

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Every homecoming is bittersweet, especially for those players that starred in other cities. For Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Mallex Smith, his return to Seattle will bring back pleasant memories of his time with the Mariners.