PORT CHARLOTTE - Rays' Exhibition Season Preview
The Tampa Bay Rays are taking a cautious approach with their speedster, Chandler Simpson, as they gear up for the exhibition season. Simpson, who dazzled fans with 44 stolen bases in his 2025 rookie campaign, is dealing with tightness in his left hamstring.
Manager Kevin Cash emphasized the importance of patience, noting, “We’re going to slow play him, just get his legs underneath him. His 80% is faster than most 100s, but we’re still going to keep him out of the games for the first couple and see if we can continue to progress the hamstring.”
Meanwhile, the Rays are awaiting updates on reliever Edwin Uceta, who arrived at camp with a troublesome right shoulder. After undergoing an MRI and consulting with team orthopedic Dr.
Koco Eaton, the team remains hopeful for positive news. Cash reassured fans, explaining that such precautions are standard for pitchers with arm issues.
Newly acquired reliever Steven Wilson is also on the sidelines, dealing with a back issue. Despite these setbacks, the Rays are set to kick off the exhibition season with right-hander TJ Nichols on the mound.
The 23-year-old prospect, who advanced to Double-A last August, will make his first appearance in a Rays uniform. His parents, flying in from Sacramento, are eager to witness this milestone.
Nichols shared, “Just seeing me pitch an inning, and then they’re leaving the next day. They wanted to see me go against these guys.” With his parents planning to catch more of his games, Nichols is expected to start the season in Montgomery, Alabama.
The Rays’ lineup for the exhibition opener includes All-Stars Jonathan Aranda and Junior Caminero, alongside offseason acquisitions Jacob Melton, Ryan Vilade, and Ben Williamson. Lefties Cam Booser and Joe Rock are also slated to pitch.
Saturday morning will see Shane McClanahan throwing to hitters for the first time in camp. The team is focusing on improving pickoff plays at second base, with Vilade primarily working in right field, but also getting some reps at first and second base.
Fans can catch Saturday’s opener streamed for free on the MLB app and MLB.TV, with Dewayne Staats, Brian Anderson, and Ryan Bass on commentary. The game will also be broadcast on WDAE radio, featuring Andy Freed and Neil Solondz.
Stay connected with all things Tampa Bay sports by following our coverage on social media and subscribing to our updates.