Rays’ Randy Arozarena joins Cuban players in showing support for homeland

ST. PETERSBURG — Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena on Wednesday joined other big-leaguers from Cuba in publicly showing concern over deteriorating conditions under the current government.

Arozarena sported a T-shirt, provided by Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman and also worn by Rays teammate Yandy Diaz, supporting the protests in Cuba, and spoke publicly for the first time on the situation.

“It’s been unfortunate to see,” Arozarena said via team interpreter Manny Navarro. “You see a lot of people losing their rights, and people losing their lives.

“Fortunately, I’ve had the option to be able, that I could leave. I spent eight hours on a boat and I was able to come out here in the country where it’s free. I’m able to say what I wish and do what I want. And I just want the same for my people in Cuba, as well.”

The saying on the shirt, Patria y vida, means “homeland and life,” and is featured in a recent hip-hop song by exiled Cuban musicians to draw attention to the cause. It is a play off the slogan introduced during the 1950s Cuban revolution, Patria o muerte, which means “homeland or death.”

Some Cuban players have written messages of support on their caps; Diaz had SOS #Cuba on his. Arozarena said when Chapman sent over the T-shirt he decided to wear it on the field during batting practice.

“For me, it’s just the form of freedom, and I want to let everybody know that I’m here to support that, as well,” Arozarena said. “I’m a native from there, so I just want the freedom for everyone to be able to have that freedom to do what they want, as well.”

Nelson Cruz scratched from lineup

Newly acquired designated hitter Nelson Cruz was scratched from Wednesday’s lineup due to a bruise on his right foot sustained when he fouled a ball off it in Monday’s game, though the Rays seemed confident he won’t be out long as x-rays showed no fracture. “I think he’s fine,” manager Kevin Cash said. “Just sore and some swelling in there. The swelling has gone down to the bottom of his foot. He got it pretty good, but (the team was) optimistic that he would be available (Wednesday). We’ll see how continued treatment goes. X-rays were negative, so that’s a good sign.” Brett Phillips went into the lineup to play center, with Manuel Margot shifting to right, Randy Arozarena to left and Austin Meadows to DH.

Trade deadline update

With the 4 p.m. Friday trade deadline approaching, the Rays appeared to be all talk and no action on Wednesday, with starting pitching help presumably their No. 1 target. Another option would be to add a reliever, with Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel the top candidate. The Yankees reportedly were close to finalizing a big deal, acquiring lefty slugger Joey Gallo from Texas.

Miscellany

o The Rays got good reports on Chris Archer’s solid rehab outing for Triple-A Durham Tuesday, in which he allowed one hit over 3-2/3 scoreless innings, throwing 59 pitches. Cash said Archer, out since early April with forearm tightness, will make a fifth start on Sunday, and possibly another after that.

o Rightfielder Aaron Judge was scratched from the Yankees lineup just before game time with no reason given, then pinch-hit in the fifth and struck out.

o Rays righthander Luis Patino said he goes into Thursday’s game more comfortable and confident working in a starter’s routine, allowing him to work on specifics between outings.

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