3 Rays players with legitimate Rookie of the Year aspirations this season

It was more likely that you've seen top prospects Carson Williams and Chandler Simpson attached to the idea of a Rays American League Rookie of the Year case. There were few other potential rookies considered from the Tampa camp, but lo and behold, two hitters and a pitcher have shined to begin their first major league season.

1. Kameron Misner

It would've been enough for Rays fans if Misner was optioned to Triple-A Durham immediately after blasting his historic walk-off home run on Opening Day. However, the former first round pick never stopped hitting and the Rays are counting their blessings with all the unexpected success.

The Rays acquired Kameron Misner in a 2021 trade with the Miami Marlins. Tampa Bay sent beloved infielder Joey Wendle to Miami, but little did they know, Misner would also become a fan favorite a few years later. The Missouri native joined the Opening Day roster after a late injury to utility man Richie Palacios. He's more than held his own so far, as the left-handed center fielder is currently slashing .395/.429/.744. Those statistics put him in the top 5 in batting average across the entire MLB.

2. Jake Mangum

Jake Mangum was the second minor league outfielder to join this roster after Josh Lowe went down with an injury after his second at-bat on Opening Day. Boy, are we glad he's a part of this club. The Mississippi State dignitary has certainly made the most of this opportunity as he's quickly become the heart and soul of this lineup on a daily basis. Whether he's playing right, left, or center field, the hustle and effort never waivers.

On the offensive side, Mangum locked down a role after his 4-for-4 performance against the Pirates on March 31st. He followed up this amazing effort with a 3-for-4 game the next day. Since then, he's cooled down a little bit, but still holds a .327 AVG with an AL leading seven stolen bases.

3. Mason Montgomery

Mason Montgomery displayed ridiculous numbers in his brief cameo last season, but he's still employing a dignified role in the Rays bullpen so far. In 2024, the 24-year old left-hander tossed 9.2 innings, giving up only two earned runs which equals a 1.86 ERA. His performance a season ago was highlighted by an immaculate September outing where he struck out six straight hitters against the playoff bound Tigers.

In 2025, the hard-throwing lefty has posted a less impressive 4.50 ERA as he's allowed three runs in only six innings of work. The two home runs that Montgomery has given up is a little concerning, but there's reason to believe that he will turn it around, especially with his 100 mph fastball.