Randy Arozarena just threw down an all-time performance at T-Mobile Park, becoming only the third player in MLB history to crush both a first-pitch home run AND a walk-off home run in the same game. It was pure magic on Saturday, August 22, 2026, against the Cubs, and if you weren’t watching, you missed history in the making in the Emerald City.
Arozarena’s Unbelievable Night at T-Mobile Park
Talk about a statement. Arozarena started the game by absolutely smashing the opening pitch of the bottom of the first inning , a sinker from David Peterson , 416 feet to center field. That gave our M’s a quick 1-0 lead and marked his 18th bomb of the season. But he wasn’t done! Much later, in the bottom of the ninth, with two on, two out, and the Mariners down by a pair of runs, Arozarena stepped up. He delivered a game-winning blast off a Jacob Webb slider that, in a wild twist, soared right over Pete Crow-Armstrong’s glove in center to secure a crucial 5-4 win for the hosts. Oh, and did we mention he also robbed a home run earlier in the game? This dude did it all! Only Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Cubs had pulled off the first-pitch and walk-off homer combo just days before, with Vic Power doing it way back in 1957. Arozarena is also just the seventh player since 1900 to hit a leadoff homer and a walk-off homer in the same game. Seriously, what a night.
Arozarena Is Leading the Charge
Randy was 3 for 4 with a walk and those two incredible dingers, making every bit of it essential for that thrilling win. Our 31-year-old three-time All-Star is absolutely raking this season, slashing an impressive .275/.369/.463, which gives him a 139 OPS+. He’s also leading the Mariners in WAR with a stellar 4.3 figure. After the game, you could feel his energy. “I think it’s my biggest game,” Arozarena said through an interpreter. “I didn’t expect to come into the game and hit two home runs and rob one. But yes, it was a special day for me, a special performance for myself. But most importantly, this moment in time for the team and being able to help the team win is the biggest thing for today.” You love to hear that kind of passion!
What’s Next for the M’s?
That epic victory pushed the Mariners to a 62-68 record on the season. Yeah, we all know that’s not where we want to be, especially after making it to the ALCS last year, but this team is still in it! We’re only three games behind the Astros in the AL West, and we are absolutely still chasing that third wild-card spot in the AL. Performances like Randy’s remind us what this team is capable of. It’s early season, but these are the moments that build momentum. Let’s keep this energy going!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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