Rays Reinstate Mangum, Option Simpson to Triple-A

The Tampa Bay Rays reinstated outfielder Jake Mangum from the injured list on Friday after he missed over a month with a left groin strain, during which he hit .338 with seven RBIs and eight stolen bases in 21 games. To make room for Mangum, the Rays optioned rookie outfielder Chandler Simpson to Triple-A Durham, despite his 19 stolen bases (third in the majors) and a .285 average over 35 games. Rays manager Kevin Cash and president Erik Neander called the roster move difficult, citing Mangum's defensive consistency and versatility as key factors. Simpson was praised for his speed and recent strong play, and is expected to benefit from regular playing time in Triple-A. Mangum returned to the lineup batting third and playing center field against the Astros, going hitless in his first game back. The moves reflect the team's emphasis on defense and balanced offense amid ongoing injury challenges.