BREAKING NEWS: Tampa bay rays center Chandler Simpson is the old man out of  Tampa bay Now the Ed……… veiw More 

BREAKING: Tampa Bay’s “Old‑Man Routine” Sensation, Chandler Simpson, Energizes Rays

TAMPA, FL — July 6, 2025 — Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Chandler Simpson is rewriting the narrative of what a modern baseball star looks like. Not with towering home runs or gaudy power numbers—but with an “old-man routine,” unmatched speed, and relentless hustle that’s energizing the entire franchise.

From Rookie to Sparkplug
At just 24 years old, Simpson made MLB history on April 19, becoming the first Rays player to debut batting leadoff and playing center field in the same game. He didn’t disappoint—delivering a pivotal ground-rule double in the ninth inning that sparked a comeback win, making an instant impact on both sides of the ball ([SI.com][1], [TampaBay.com][2]).

Underrated Star in the Making
Though not a household name prior to 2025, Simpson dominated the minor leagues with a staggering 104 stolen bases in 2024—a number not seen in decades ([WSJ][3]). His elite speed earned him a rare 90-grade scouting rating, and his .355 batting average between High-A and Double-A proved he wasn’t just a runner, but a legitimate contact hitter as well ([SI.com][1]).

“Old-Man” Routine, Young-Man Speed
While his game is fast, his prep is slow and steady.

Simpson follows a strict, veteran-like routine: compression boots, hot tub therapy, dynamic stretching, strength training, and extra batting practice. “My routine is like an old man’s routine,” Simpson told reporters. “I want to be able to run like I run now at 34, 35, 36” ([SI.com][4]).

That discipline and work ethic have already set him apart.

Lighting It Up Early
Simpson caught fire immediately in his debut stretch. In his first eight MLB games, he reached base in every appearance, including a 3-for-3 night with two runs scored, a walk, and three stolen bases—kickstarting a five-game winning streak for the Rays ([TSN][5]).

Adjustments & Growth
Despite the early offensive surge, Simpson faced growing pains in center field. Defensive misreads and errant routes led to a short demotion to Triple-A Durham. But the Rays believed in his upside.

Upon returning, Simpson looked sharper—making multiple highlight-worthy catches, improving his reads, and becoming more confident in his role ([TampaBay.com][6]).

A Throwback in a Power Game
In an era dominated by launch angles and exit velocities, Simpson represents a refreshing counterpoint. He brings back an element of small ball, baserunning pressure, and defensive versatility.

“This kid has the most drive, most determination and best work ethic out of any player in our entire organization,” said Rays outfield coordinator Jared Sandberg ([SI.com][4]).
Manager Kevin Cash echoed the sentiment: “He’s going to be better by the end of the year. He works—he’s out there every day.”

By the Numbers
Batting Average: .290 (as of late June)
Stolen Bases: 21
Home Runs: 0 (but several infield and hustle-driven extra-base hits)
Games Played: 38
Outfield Assists: 4
Though he’s yet to hit his first MLB home run, Simpson’s ability to generate offense with his legs and contact hitting makes him one of the most exciting players in the league to watch.

Looking Ahead
Chandler Simpson’s ceiling is still rising. If his discipline and performance continue, he may very well lead the next generation of contact-speed players in MLB.

The Tampa Bay Rays aren’t just watching the emergence of a new center fielder—they may be witnessing the rebirth of old-school baseball in a new-school era.

🌐 SOURCES
Twins secure comeback win over Rays – Reuters
[The Speed Demon Who’s Quickly Becoming Baseball’s Most Exciting Player – WSJ][3]
[Chandler Simpson Makes History – SI.com][1]
[Still a Ways to Go in Center – TampaBay.com][6]