As the Tampa Bay Rays kick off their season against the St. Louis Cardinals, there's plenty of buzz despite a tough loss in game one. The spotlight is on Junior Caminero's rise, but don't overlook the potential breakout of Chandler Simpson, the lightning-fast outfielder with his eyes set on a jaw-dropping milestone: 100 stolen bases in 2026.
ESPN's Bradford Doolittle has pinpointed Simpson's ambitious target as a major talking point for the Rays this year. Simpson's speed is undeniable, having swiped 104 bases in just 110 minor league games in 2024. But the real test will be translating those skills to the big leagues.
Simpson's quest for 100 stolen bases isn't just about numbers. It's about solidifying his role as a consistent, top-of-the-order hitter who can leverage his on-base skills. If he can get on base more frequently, his speed could turn a single into a scoring opportunity in the blink of an eye.
Last season, Simpson snagged 44 bases in 109 games with a .325 on-base percentage. To hit that 100 mark, he'll need to channel his 2024 form, where he boasted a .410 OBP. Achieving that would not only make the century mark feasible but also elevate his overall value to the team.
At 25, Simpson is the Rays' biggest wildcard. His talent is unquestioned; the intrigue lies in how far he can push his limits this season. If he can reach his lofty goal, Simpson won't just be a speedster-he'll be a game-changer.