Exciting Prospect Chandler Simpson Is Here!

In a thrilling development, the Tampa Bay Rays have officially selected the contract of outfielder Chandler Simpson! This comes as the team deals with a setback, as outfielder Richie Palacios heads back to the injured list due to a right knee sprain. In a corresponding move, right-hander Alex Faedo has been transferred to the 60-day injured list, following a prolonged recovery from shoulder inflammation.

Simpson: A Speedster with Potential!

At just 24 years old, Simpson is turning heads as one of baseball's most exciting prospects. Drafted with the 70th overall pick in 2022, he made waves in his first full season by stealing a jaw-dropping 81 bases in only 91 games in 2023. If that wasn't impressive enough, he had already swiped 104 bags in 110 minor league games last year!

Questionable Power but Strong on Base!

While Simpson’s power numbers are modest—boasting just one home run (an inside-the-park affair)—his ability to get on base is noteworthy. He has logged over 1,120 plate appearances with a slash line that’s eerily balanced at .324/.389/.371, showing a better walk rate (9.6%) than strikeout rate (8.8%). This gives him a 123 wRC+, indicating he’s performing 23% above league average.

However, history has seen speedsters struggle to make a consistent offensive impact in the big leagues. Notable players like Billy Hamilton and Juan Pierre dazzled with their speed but faced challenges in their overall batting performance. Can Simpson break the mold?

Scouts Divided on His Future Impact!

Prospect analysts are split on what Simpson’s future holds. FanGraphs rated him as the #72 prospect, praising his contact skills, which come close to those of established hitters like Luis Arraez. Yet, they warn that players with his profile can sometimes falter, drawing comparisons to Myles Straw and Nick Madrigal.

His defensive game is also in development, as he transitions from second base to the outfield. Though his routes need improvement, his exceptional speed provides a cushion for error.

Will He Make a Splash in the Big Leagues?

While ESPN placed Simpson at #91 on their prospect list, other outlets like Baseball America and MLB Pipeline didn’t rank him in their top 100—a clear sign of mixed opinions about his overall readiness. Nonetheless, the Rays are keen to see what he brings to their outfield, which has been thin with Palacios, Jonny DeLuca, and Josh Lowe all on the IL.

As the season progresses, Simpson steps into a pivotal role, joining players like Kameron Misner and José Caballero to showcase his talent against major league pitching. Will he rise to the occasion? Fans will be watching closely!

Stay tuned for what could be the start of something special for Chandler Simpson and the Tampa Bay Rays!