If you follow Seattle Mariners prospects, you’ve probably heard the name Michael Arroyo. While he may not headline every list, he’s consistently mentioned as he steadily worked his way up the minor leagues, reaching Double-A Arkansas in 2025.
Arroyo signed with Seattle in 2022 out of Cartagena, Colombia, at just 17 years old. The infielder — who could also see time in the outfield — has shown maturity at the plate, compiling an impressive .408 on-base percentage over four minor league seasons.
On Friday, Arroyo was included in the Mariners’ lineup, likely in preparation for his upcoming departure to the World Baseball Classic later this month. Seattle wants those players scheduled for the tournament to get early spring at-bats, and Arroyo took full advantage of the opportunity.
In his first plate appearance, he launched the Mariners’ first home run of the spring — a two-run opposite-field shot on an 0-2 changeup. He followed that up with a sharply hit double to right-center in his next at-bat.
It was quite the first impression.
“Arroyo kind of stole the show,” manager Dan Wilson said after Seattle’s 7-4 Cactus League win over the Padres. “When he’s locked in, that’s where his swing naturally goes. He looked really sharp today.”
Scouts have long viewed Arroyo as an advanced hitter for his age, praising his plate discipline and underrated power. Arroyo, however, keeps his mindset simple when he steps into the batter’s box.
“My approach is to let the ball travel and try to make contact where I think I can do the most damage,” he explained.
That philosophy stems from his older brother, Carlos, whom Arroyo credits for teaching him how to hit.
“I looked up to him as my idol growing up,” Arroyo said.
He expected to get detailed feedback from his brother after Friday’s game. Carlos is currently staying with him in Arizona, along with their mother — the two forming his core support system.
“Whenever they’re around, I keep them close,” Arroyo said. “They’re a blessing.”
Another major blessing is just ahead: representing Colombia in the World Baseball Classic.
“It’s a dream to play for my country,” Arroyo said. “And the best part is my brother is going too. We played together professionally in Colombia this winter, and now we’ll share the stage at the Classic. It’s an even bigger platform for us.”
Notes
• Mariners workouts in Peoria have drawn noticeably larger crowds this week. Friday’s attendance reached 9,956 — the largest turnout ever for a Cactus League home opener in franchise history.
• Cal Raleigh tested the automated ball-strike system early, challenging a ball call in the first inning. Unlike last season — when he was nearly flawless with challenges — this one was upheld. Still, Raleigh viewed it as useful feedback.
“I wanted to see if the strike zone had changed with the top part removed, and it looks about the same as last year,” he said. “You’ll probably see more chances at the bottom of the zone.”
Raleigh also noted he won’t have access to the ABS system during the World Baseball Classic, as it won’t be used in that tournament.
• Up next, the Mariners host the Giants in Peoria on Saturday at 12:10 p.m. PT, with right-hander Emerson Hancock scheduled to start.
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