Baseball Tonight with Buster Olney Retire The Number: Rays Chandler Simpson Stops By; Struggling Stars
Apr 15, 2026
Leonard Coleman Jr., former National League president who helped retire Jackie Robinson's No. 42, shares the origin story and personal memories. David Schoenfield, ESPN analyst, breaks down league offensive trends and struggling big-name batters. Chandler Simpson, speedy Rays outfielder focused on getting on base, talks prep, bunting drills, and wearing No. 42 on Jackie Robinson Day.
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Wearing 42 Evokes Robinson's Relentless Fearlessness
- Wearing No. 42 on Jackie Robinson Day carries deep meaning about legacy and fearlessness.
- Simpson described Jackie Robinson's relentlessness and fearlessness on the basepaths, noting the physical risks Robinson took without modern protective gear.
Cold Start Then Sudden Offensive Explosion
- Early-season offensive struggles masked a sudden multi-game power surge around April 13.
- David Schoenfield noted previous cold slumps and then a night with 37 homers across 10 games, suggesting offense may just be thawing out.
Several Star Players Are Off To Slow Starts
- Many established stars started the season hitting well below expectations, raising early concern.
- Schoenfield listed about 20 players under .200, including Francisco Lindor and Julio Rodríguez, noting cold weather and slow bat speeds as partial explanations.