In a surprising move, the injury-plagued Tampa Bay Rays promoted Chandler Simpson just after he played 17 games in Triple-A. They hoped his unique style of hitting that focuses on contact and speed would shine in the majors.
“So,” Rays manager Kevin Cash stated before Simpson’s debut on April 19, “we’ll see how it plays out.”
Fast forward eight games, and it seems to be going very well.
Since joining the team, Simpson has hit in every game, boasting a .400 average (12-for-30), recorded three walks for a .455 on-base percentage, successfully stolen three bases out of four attempts, scored five runs, and driven in three runs.
Utilizing his incredible speed, he has forced defensive errors and managed to break up a no-hitter. Simpson is quick to lay down bunts and hit line drives, getting key hits in crucial moments. Even on defense, he has secured his spot in centerfield, surprising many who worried about his skills there, with a couple of highlight plays to boot.
Coincidentally, during his eight-game streak, he and the Rays have celebrated victories in six matches, including five in a row.
“Everyone knew he was fast when he came in,” remarked Rays shortstop Taylor Walls after their recent sweep in San Diego. “He’s made a massive impact in every area—base running, hitting, and fielding. The clubhouse is buzzing to have him around. If he keeps this up, we’re going to win a lot of games.”
Jumping from Double-A to the majors can be daunting, especially for a player with just 83 Double-A games under his belt and limited experience in the outfield. Yet, the Rays felt Simpson was ready for the challenge.
“We moved him up with minimal Triple-A experience because his skills seemed likely to hold up against tougher competition, and we trusted his mindset,” said Erik Neander, the Rays’ president of baseball operations.
“We never want to push anyone too hard, but we believed he had what it takes to play his game here and succeed immediately. And so far, he has.”
Simpson’s speed, precise hand-eye coordination, and sharp strike-zone discipline are vital to his rapid ascent as a 2022 draft pick from Georgia Tech.
Moreover, his mentality stands out; he plays in a unique style, especially in a game currently dominated by power hitters, and embraces that individuality.
“He really understands his game and knows what works best for him,” Neander noted. “That awareness is something he’s consistently applied to improve.”
“He’s made adjustments along the way, and he knows how he needs to compete and succeed,” Neander added. “That’s impressive.”
Simpson expressed his intent to contribute from his very first game. “I see myself as a table setter, a player that gets on base and makes things happen,” he remarked.
“I can be the Robin to anyone’s Batman on the team. My goal is to get the extra 90 feet, score runs, and help us win.”
This dynamic duo analogy is especially intriguing coming from a 24-year-old, one Simpson frequently mentions in interviews.
Neander understands the sentiment.
“That description aligns closely with his character,” he explained. “He’s here to support his teammates, keep the momentum, and create scoring opportunities. It’s a true team-first mentality to approach baseball.”
The key question was whether Simpson could keep up this performance level in the major leagues, where the competition is tougher, fielders quicker, and scouting reports more detailed.
“He had a .355 batting average last year across High-A and Double-A,” Neander noted. “Expect a lot of singles and walks from him. Once he’s on base, he’s a threat to steal.”
“For him to continue thriving at the major-league level, he needs to keep playing his game. He reads pitches well, has competitive at-bats, and makes incredible contact, which made us confident in promoting him—and it’s paying off.”
Simpson is eager to prove his capabilities. “Absolutely! I’m here to show everyone my style works. I know there’s skepticism, but I’ve demonstrated my skills at every level. What’s one more?”
The real test will be maintaining his momentum as teams get a second look at him, starting with the Yankees this weekend.
Neander believes this challenge might not be daunting. “He has a one-of-a-kind profile; pitching to him is unlike anyone in the league,” he stated.
“As he becomes more successful, teams will pay closer attention. However, there’s no clear blueprint for getting him out—there aren’t many hitters like him in the majors.”
“Teams prepare well, their pitchers are superb. The more they study him, the more they’ll find ways to counter him. It’ll be up to Chandler to adapt.”
If his performance so far is any indication, expect Simpson to adjust swiftly.
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