Bunt And Run: Small Ball Coming Up Huge For Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays are finding success in the 2026 season by emphasizing small ball tactics, particularly bunting and speed on the bases. With 12 bunt singles and 17 sacrifice bunts, they lead the American League and are second in MLB in bunt singles. Their aggressive use of bunts, combined with team speed, has generated momentum and put pressure on opposing defenses.
- ▪The Rays led the American League in bunt singles with 12 and led MLB in sacrifice bunts with 17 through early May 2026.
- ▪Cedric Mullins had five bunt hits, the most on the team, and executed two successful bunt singles in a game against the Marlins.
- ▪Tampa Bay recorded 74 infield hits in their first 43 games, the most in the majors, fueled by players like Chandler Simpson and Yandy Diaz.
- ▪The Rays had the fewest strikeouts in the American League and the second-fewest in MLB, reflecting their focus on contact and speed.
- ▪Manager Kevin Cash credited the team's bunting success to precise execution and the players' speed, which creates defensive pressure.
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BusinessSportsMoneyBunt And Run: Small Ball Coming Up Huge For Tampa Bay RaysByTom Layberger,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write about college football and sports in the Tampa Bay region.Follow AuthorMay 17, 2026, 06:00am EDTST. PETERSBURG, FL - Cedric Mullins of the Tampa Bay Rays bunts against the Miami Marlins during the sixth inning at Tropicana Field on May 16, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)Getty ImagesBefore four innings were in the books Friday evening at Tropicana Field, the Rays laid down four bunts against the Marlins. Cedric Mullins was responsible for two of them, both perfectly placed balls resulting in base hits.
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