
Rays Send Top Prospect Chandler Simpson to Triple-A, Opening Space for Jake Mangum
2025-05-30
Author: Kai
Rays Shake Up Roster: Chandler Simpson Heads to Triple-A
In a strategic move, the Tampa Bay Rays have optioned their promising young talent, Chandler Simpson, to Triple-A Durham. This decision clears the way for outfielder Jake Mangum, who is making his return after a stint on the 10-day injured list due to a nagging left groin strain.
Simpson's MLB Debut and Data Breakdown
Chandler Simpson’s time at the major league level was brief but noteworthy. After being called up mid-April, the left-handed outfielder showcased his skills in 35 games, posting a solid .285 batting average with a .315 on-base percentage. Although he struggled with power and walked infrequently, his impressive strikeout rate of under 11% highlighted his contact-hitting ability.
Lightning Fast on the Bases: Simpson's Stolen Bases
One of Simpson's standout attributes has been his elite speed on the bases. He swiped an impressive 19 bags in 22 attempts, placing him third in MLB for stolen bases, trailing only Luis Robert Jr. and Bobby Witt Jr., both of whom have been active all season. Notably, since Simpson's call-up on April 18, there hasn't been any player who has matched or exceeded his stolen base tally.
A Look at Simpson's Minor League Dominance
Simpson’s dazzling speed isn’t new; it’s a well-documented feature of his career. The Georgia Tech product dominated in the minor leagues, stealing 94 and then 104 bases in his first two full seasons. Those 198 combined steals topped all minor league players by a staggering 68, establishing his reputation as a base-stealing specialist.
The Big Question: Power and Defense Concerns
The main concern surrounding Simpson is his lack of power, having only logged one professional home run—an inside-the-park variety last season at Double-A. During his initial MLB stint, all his extra-base hits were doubles, and he ranked last among MLB hitters with at least 100 plate appearances in hard contact percentage. Much of his future potential hinges on how effectively he can develop defensively. Despite his speed suggesting he would make an excellent defender, he has struggled with his reads and routes, as indicated by mixed reviews from scouts.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Chandler Simpson
As Chandler Simpson heads back to Triple-A, the Rays will be keenly observing his progress. His ability to hone his defensive skills while maintaining his contact hitting and base-stealing prowess will determine whether he can solidify his place in the major leagues. For now, all eyes will be on the rising star as he continues to develop his game.