3 non-roster invitees to keep tabs on during Rays' spring training

The most intriguing part of spring training baseball is the excitement around the non-roster invitees and witnessing whether or not they'll be able to force the team's hand and sneak onto the Opening Day roster. It's no easy task, but a season ago, the Rays current outfielder Chandler Simpson turned many heads with his unbelievable ability to get on base and some crazy web gems in center field. The speedy athlete didn't crack the roster out of camp, but he did remain on the Rays' radar for his April call-up. Could one of these non-roster invitees do the same?

1. Blake Sabol

Blake Sabol was a very savvy signing for the Rays, especially considering the lack of depth for their catchers. Although the 28-year-old backstop has only had 48 at-bats the last two seasons, he certainly has a track record of success. His minor league stats didn't disappoint and his 2023 season with the Giants saw him collect 13 homers and 44 RBIs as their primary catcher. His most recent campaign in Boston lacked substance, but he could possibly revive his earlier success if the Rays give him the opportunities.

2. Raynel Delgado

Raynel Delgado is the only member of this list that hasn't reached the major leagues, but the 25-year-old infielder has some of the best upside of the group. In 125 games for Triple-A Nashville (Brewers), Delgado hit .281 with 53 RBIs, while bouncing around to each infield position and a little bit of left field. The Rays love this Cuban athlete's versatility and potential, so keep an eye on his spring training performance.

3. Edward Olivares

Edward Olivares has the most experience of the non-roster invitees as he's played for three different MLB clubs across five seasons. The Venezuelan native collected solid stats in Kansas City as he posted a .265 AVG in four seasons. However, Olivares most recently was a member of the Orix Buffaloes of the Japan Pacific League, and he hit a dismal .213 in 61 games. Regardless, the Rays believe his major league time could provide some healthy competition for the young outfielders on the roster, and who knows, maybe he'll surprise us all and sneak onto the 2026 team.