The Tampa Bay Rays will be without outfielder Jake Mangum for their upcoming game against the Minnesota Twins, as team sources confirmed today that the rookie standout is not yet ready to return due to lingering effects from a groin strain suffered earlier this season.
Mangum, 29, has quickly become one of the most exciting players on the Rays roster since being called up in late March. With his elite speed, consistent contact hitting, and aggressive defensive play in center field, he gave Tampa Bay a jolt of energy during the early part of the season. However, that momentum was disrupted in late April when Mangum sustained a left-groin strain during a road game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Though he initially returned to the lineup in late May, the injury has continued to flare up intermittently. After experiencing renewed tightness during sprint drills earlier this week, the Rays’ medical staff recommended holding him out of action as a precautionary measure.
“Jake’s a competitor, and he wants to be out there,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said during a media session Tuesday evening. “But this is an injury you don’t mess with. We’ve seen what happens when you push a groin issue too soon, and we’re not taking that risk with him.”
Mangum has not played since Sunday and was evaluated again on Monday. While imaging did not reveal any new damage, team officials say his lateral movement and acceleration remain limited — both of which are crucial parts of his game. As a result, Mangum will sit out Wednesday’s game against the Twins, with no firm timetable for his return.
Before the injury, Mangum was batting .338 with a .457 on-base percentage and had stolen eight bases in just 21 games. His impact was felt not just statistically but emotionally, providing leadership and fire that resonated through the clubhouse.
“He brings this quiet intensity that gets everyone going,” said veteran infielder Brandon Lowe. “Whether it’s laying out for a ball in center or legging out an infield single, Jake plays like every pitch matters. That’s contagious.”
The Rays will now rely on a mix of outfield options, including Kameron Misner and Jonathan Aranda, to fill the void left by Mangum. While they bring their own skill sets to the table, neither possesses Mangum’s unique combination of range and base-running aggression.
With the AL East standings tightening and a crucial stretch of games ahead, the Rays are prioritizing long-term health over short-term gain.
“It’s not just about tomorrow’s game,” said Cash. “It’s about making sure Jake is healthy and confident when he steps back in — not worrying about re-injury every time he runs down a ball or makes a hard turn at first.”
Mangum himself addressed fans in a brief social media post Tuesday night, writing: “Frustrating setback, but staying focused. Trusting the process. Appreciate all the support.”
His sentiment reflects both his competitive nature and a maturity that has earned him respect throughout the league. While he continues rehabbing under the supervision of the Rays’ training staff, teammates say his presence in the dugout and locker room remains steady.
“It’s like he’s still playing even when he’s not in the lineup,” said catcher René Pinto. “He’s engaged, he’s talking to guys, helping the younger players. That says a lot.”
With no indication of a serious setback, the team remains hopeful Mangum will return within the next week. Until then, the Rays will continue to monitor his progress and lean on the depth of their roster.
The Rays face the Twins tomorrow evening at Tropicana Field, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Mangum will be in uniform but not active.
