Rays’ Chandler Simpson arrives, displays game-changing speed

This was probably one of the most awaited call-ups of any team's fanbase this season. No, it's not top shortstop prospect Carson Williams. Although, the 21-year old infielder's addition to the lineup will certainly be welcomed, Chandler Simpson's arrival is unique. Known across baseball as the fastest player in the sport, he has come into the majors with one goal in mind: wreak havoc on the bases.

In 110 minor league contests last year, the speedy outfielder swiped 104 bags. He was still well short of Billy Hamilton's ridiculous minor league record of 155 stolen bases, but still very impressive to say the least. On top of his fantastic speed, Simpson also displayed great bat-to-ball skill with a .324 career average in the Rays system.

However, Simpson got the baseball world's attention in spring training of all places. He found a way to bring energy to games that ultimately didn't count towards anything. As soon as the left-handed contact hitter stepped onto the field, he looked for ways to make a difference.

In 25 at-bats, Simpson hit a sub-par .240, but struck out only once. These numbers allude to some possible bad luck in a small sample size. He also portrayed his elite speed with three stolen bases and a remarkable "Superman" catch early on in the spring. Fans were begging for him to be added to the Opening Day roster, but the truth was he was a non-roster invite, so that was unlikely.

Nonetheless, due to multiple injuries to Rays outfielders, Chandler Simpson has been called up for his rookie campaign in the big leagues. The Georgia Tech product made his MLB debut on Saturday against the Yankees. He only went 1-for-5, but his only hit was a crucial one as it continued the Rays epic 9th inning rally to come back from a 4-run deficit.

Simpson picked up another base knock in his second big league game, but this one came with some controversy. In the bottom of the 6th inning, the lefty smacked a ground ball to first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. The veteran infielder misplayed it and the ball ricocheted off his glove. As Max Fried was eyeing the first no-hitter of the young season, scorers decided to give Goldschmidt an error on the play. At first glance, it appeared to be a clear error as the ball should've been fielded cleanly, especially by a player of his experience. However, if you analyze the play further, you can recognize that Chandler Simpson was definitely going to beat Max Fried in their race to first base. The scorers would alter the decision in favor of Simpson and the Rays, giving the 24-year old his second career hit.

As we continue this season, we hope that Simpson can initiate some much-needed energy and passion for the sport, and give this club the boost that it needs to avoid falling out of contention.