Mangum, Rays outfielder and switch-hitter, posted a .296 average with 23 steals across 99 games before his Rays debut. Drafted by the Mets in 2019, he climbed to the majors with speed and contact skills, and his season opening in September on a Chicago trip could unlock more stolen-base chances as Tampa Bay leans on aggressive baserunning. His family connection to Chicago adds context for a memorable September stretch.

Mangum added three hits for Tampa Bay, amplifying the club’s multi-hit night and underlining the Rays’ depth pieces contributing to the 19-hit barrage.

Mangum starts in center as part of Rays’ bottom-order tweaks, bringing speed and contact in hopes of generating gaps and run support against Irvin.

Jake Mangum is in a severe slump, batting just 4-for-34 in the last 11 games, which causes concern for fantasy managers about his roster status.

Jake Mangum has emerged as a solid fantasy option this season with a .301 average and 14 steals in just 241 plate appearances. His speed and batting average make him a potential asset for teams needing help in those categories.