1 Rays player who will have to step up their game to secure everyday role this season

The Rays acquired 26-year old outfielder Jonny DeLuca in a controversial trade with the Dodgers prior to the 2024 season. We say "controversial" because the deal saw the losses of ace starter Tyler Glasnow and clutch hitting right fielder Manuel Margot. The Rays also received right-handed starting pitcher Ryan Pepiot, but it's difficult to believe that we came out on top in this transaction.

Nevertheless, DeLuca is currently slotted in as the Rays starting center fielder for the 2025 season after the Mets acquired previous starter Jose Siri. The California native is a very talented player with multiple tools up his sleeve. His power, speed, and defense may not match up with those of Siri, but he's certainly not far behind in any of those attributes. The 6'0 outfielder surpasses his former teammate with his contact ability and baserunning.

Although, in 107 games last season, DeLuca hit a sub-par .217 with 22 extra-base hits. Jose Siri's average was even worse at .187 and he struck out nearly 100 more times. Therefore, DeLuca appears to be the more advantageous option, but does he have the spot locked up?

Many fans would argue that he doesn't have center field locked up at all. After watching the Rays first six spring training games, there is one outfielder that stands out among the rest. His name is Chandler Simpson.

Simpson has been a highly-touted prospect ever since he was drafted by the Rays in the second round of the 2022 MLB draft. The Georgia Tech product has slashed .326/.394/.375 with a remarkable 206 stolen bases in his short minor league career to this point.

Although he's yet to sport the Durham Bulls uniform, many fans think he has what it takes to step into the Rays Opening Day roster as their center fielder and potentially even leadoff hitter. The 24-year old's incredible speed combined with his bat-to-ball skills would make him an ideal leadoff hitter for any club, but is he ready to fill into that role in 2025?

If his spring training numbers are any inclination, then you would be hard-pressed to say no. Simpson is 4-for-8 with two runs and two stolen bases so far this spring. He has also shown off his glove and range with two exceptional diving plays in the outfield. We're not necessarily saying it's time to rush this young phenom into the big leagues, but DeLuca should watch his back because the speedy Simpson is definitely hot on his heels.