After an offseason full of change Jake Mangum is excited to be a Tampa Bay Ray
With the MLB offseason in full swing, the Rays have been busy adding to their roster. Last week, they traded Tyler Glasnow to the Dodgers for Ryan Pepiot and Jonny Deluca. However, that is not the only move they have made. They also acquired Jake Mangum from the Marlins as the player to be named later to complete the Viadal Brujan trade. In Mangum, the Rays have added a talented outfielder to their system.
Mangum’s pro career began in 2019 when the Mets selected him in the fourth round of the MLB Draft. His draft stock rose due to a stellar career at Mississippi State, where he set the SEC hits record. Mangum also played in the College World Series, an experience he will never forget.
“ That was two of the best weeks of my life in junior and senior year,” said Mangum. “It was a great experience. I tell every baseball fan that you need to check that place out. It’s a great spot for baseball fans because it’s not just the teams there. Don’t get me wrong, Mississippi State showed up fan base-wise, but you get so many people that love the game of baseball and are just soaking it all in.”
After being drafted by the Mets, Mangum built on his success in college. In four minor league seasons, the Flowood native has posted a .289 batting average and driven in 152 runs. His ability to get on base peaked the Rays interest and was one of the reasons he was targeted in trade talks. While Mangum will change ZIP codes after playing in the Marlins system last year, it is an opportunity he is looking forward to.
"The first thing I thought when I got traded was Tampa's reputation of minor league development and winning at every level," said Mangum." The Durham Bulls, for example, are always at the top of the Triple-A league. I'm excited to get in the room and learn their philosophies and how they do things. I want to be a sponge, soak it all in, and be the best baseball player I can be."
After ending the 2023 campaign in Triple-A, Mangum could make his MLB debut during the 2024 campaign. In his first taste of Triple-A action, he posted a .298 batting average and drove in a career-high 52 runs. The 2019 draftee also showed some power with 42 extra-base hits. However, that success has not changed his mindset.
“ I’m going to play as hard as I can every day,” said Mangum. “ That’s the one thing I can promise. I’m going to give you all I got. Hopefully, I can help win some ballgames and I’m excited for the opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”
Follow Jamie on Twitter @JamieGatlin17
For additional Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots, MLB and NFL content follow Beyond the Monster on Twitter @BeyondtheMnstr
