Tampa Bay Rays face mounting spring training injury concerns as Chandler Simpson’s hamstring issue sidelines the league’s fastest player. Will Simpson’s speed return in time to challenge Carl Crawford’s single-season stolen base record, or will Jacob Melton seize the opportunity in the outfield?

Meanwhile, Edwin Uceta’s shoulder impingement and Steven Wilson’s back injury add to bullpen uncertainties, highlighting the urgent need for depth and resilience among Rays relievers.

Kevin and Ulises dissect the team’s cautious approach, referencing past medical missteps with Shane McClanahan and questioning manager Kevin Cash’s optimistic injury updates.

The Wander Franco legal saga takes another turn as his trial gets postponed yet again, leaving the team’s financial outlook and roster plans in limbo. Can Carson Williams shoulder the expectations left in Franco’s wake, or will the Rays need a new franchise cornerstone? Don’t miss this essential breakdown of Tampa Bay’s early spring struggles and pivotal roster questions.

00:00 Spring Training & Chandler Simpson Injury

09:18 Rays Bullpen Injury Concerns

18:44 Wander Franco Trial Update

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Drew Rasmussen reclaims the Opening Day spotlight for the Tampa Bay Rays, signaling a return to the club's honored tradition: rewarding last season’s best arm. Kevin and Ulises break down Rasmussen’s inspiring journey from reliever to ace, his comeback from three major surgeries, and what a longer leash means for Tampa Bay’s 2026 rotation. What does Rasmussen’s projected 170-175 innings mean for the bullpen and can he live up to a top-tier 3.23 ERA?

With fresh faces like Nick Martinez and Steven Matz joining Shane McClanahan and Ryan Pepiot, the all-new Rays rotation sparks debate over the perfect order—should lefties be split, and who gets tasked with the heavy lifting after McClanahan’s short starts? Plus, a fastball of baseball trivia and “Name That WAR” keep the energy high as the hosts weigh whether this revamped staff can crack MLB’s top 10 rotations. Will Tampa Bay’s pitching prove elite this season?

00:00 – Drew Rasmussen Named Opening Day Starter

10:28 – Projecting Rays’ 2026 Rotation Order

21:47 – Baseball Trivia & Name That WAR

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Tampa Bay Rays face a major crossroads: Will Yandy Díaz stay in St. Petersburg beyond 2026, or could the franchise finally break its cycle of trading star talent? With Díaz’s club option and consistent elite production—including an .814 OPS and stellar plate discipline—the hosts weigh his value against recent signings like Nick Martinez and Cedric Mullins. Is $13 million for Yandy the best bargain in baseball, and could his veteran leadership shape the next wave of Rays hitters?

Ulises and Kevin debate lineup strategy, examining how speedster Chandler Simpson could turbocharge offensive output for fastball hitters like Díaz. The conversation shifts to fan-centric topics: Should Rays giveaways be reserved for fans in Rays gear, or is petty pride the new rallying cry at Tropicana Field? Join the Locked On Rays podcast for bold takes on roster decisions, clubhouse chemistry, and the nuances of modern baseball fandom.

00:00: Yandy Díaz Rays Future

11:35: Chandler Simpson Batting Impact

21:06: Giveaways Pettiness Debate

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Tampa Bay Rays fans face a burning question: Who will claim team MVP honors in 2026 if phenom Junior Caminero isn’t eligible? Kevin and Ulises assess contenders like Yandy Diaz, Jonathan Aranda, and Drew Rasmussen while debating the power dynamic of a potent Rays lineup. Could Jonathan Aranda’s bat be the difference-maker, or might Chandler Simpson’s elite defense shock everyone?

The show also spotlights Hunter Biggie’s comeback bid in the Rays bullpen and discusses the franchise’s renewed push for affordable game experiences—including $10 tickets and membership perks. Listener mailbag hits on bullpen hierarchy, season-long player durability, and whether Rays management is truly making Tropicana Field accessible for all fans. Are ticket prices really 15% lower for most seats, and could Ballpark Pass return? Tune in for sharp Rays analysis, optimism, and practical insights for the 2026 season ahead.

00:00 – 2026 Rays MVP Discussion

10:12 – Hunter Biggie’s Role in Bullpen

18:29 – Affordable Rays Tickets in 2026

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Tampa Bay Rays eye a winning season as PECOTA projections suggest 82 victories—could this signal a return to AL East prominence? Shane McClanahan’s health and revamped bullpen, featuring Bryan Baker and Griffin Jax, become pivotal pieces as the Rays count on pitching, defense, and Tropicana Field advantage to stay competitive.

Hosts Kevin and Ulises explore how recent free-agent acquisitions, lineup tweaks, and speedsters like Chandler Simpson—mentored by Kevin Kiermaier—might reshape the club’s dynamic.

Chandler Simpson’s elite speed and bat-to-ball skills spark debate: Is his lack of power offset by havoc on the basepaths? The hosts highlight new owner Patrick Zalupski’s accessible approach, answering fan concerns about ticket prices and banners.

With the Rays now embracing higher expectations and engaging fans on social media, will they finally move beyond celebrating wildcard berths and aim for postseason glory?

00:00 — Rays 2026 Win Projections

10:57 — Kiermaier Mentors Simpson

19:46 — Rays Ownership Engagement

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Tampa Bay Rays fans embrace a surge of optimism after a successful Rays Fan Fest, with vibrant energy ignited by Brett Phillips and promising updates from manager Kevin Cash.

Is Shane McClanahan poised for a comeback that could add crucial wins to the Rays' season projection? The hosts spotlight Jacob Melton, drawing intriguing comparisons to Junior Caminero, and discuss potential lineup strategies that might boost offensive power.

Major talking points include the evolving relationship between Rays ownership, front office, and dugout, highlighting a unified vision for championship contention. The potential impact of new veterans like Cedric Mullins and Jake Fraley on the young core is examined, as Erik Neander describes how leadership shapes team culture. The episode delivers fan stories, prospect buzz, and a touch of toxic positivity—raising the question: can the Rays' renewed mindset propel them to new heights in the AL East?

00:00 — Fan Fest Recap and Positivity

05:17 — Shane McClanahan Outlook

11:24 — Jacob Melton Comparison & Rays Prospects

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Tampa Bay Rays kick off spring camp in Port Charlotte with a clean bill of health and renewed energy. Can Nick Martinez’s veteran presence and versatility stabilize the rotation, and will Junior Caminero’s leadership set the tone in the clubhouse?

Ulises and Kevin debate the closer-by-committee approach, how Cedric Mullins’ consistent production fits into the outfield, and the fierce AL East competition shaping the Rays’ path.

The hosts break down early standouts, discuss the franchise’s evolving team-first culture, and revisit the crucial roles of prospects like Carson Williams and Jacob Melton.

Trivia, “Name That War,” and heated discussions about past Rays draft decisions round out a lively episode. Will the Rays’ strategic signings and internal growth put them back in contention, or do bigger challenges await?

00:00 — Rays Spring Camp News

10:14 — Nick Martinez & Rays' Rotation

20:38 — Baseball Trivia & Name That War

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Tampa Bay Rays face harsh projections for 2026, with Fangraphs placing them at just 78 wins and last in the AL East despite a retooled roster featuring Nick Martinez, Cedric Mullins, and Junior Caminero.

Hosts Kevin and Ulises confront the tough odds against strong division rivals like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Baltimore Orioles, sparking debate over the Rays’ true ceiling and the possibility of key deadline trades that could reshape the roster midseason.

The podcast also spotlights looming decisions on stars Yandy Díaz and Shane McClanahan, raising the question—will the Rays trade their ace if he bounces back? Fans get a sneak peek at the anticipated 2026 Rays promo schedule, including standout items like the Chandler Simpson "bobble legs" collectible and retro Longoria gear. Can Tampa Bay’s creativity off the field match the challenges they’ll face on it?

00:00 — Rays 2026 Win Predictions

09:23 — Shane McClanahan Trade Outlook

19:28 — Rays 2026 Promo Schedule Review

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