In the Royals' recent matchup against the Reds at Goodyear Ballpark, their right fielder delivered a jaw-dropping moment despite the team's 5-4 loss. In the fourth inning, he launched a baseball at a blistering 115.2 mph off the bat, sending it 460 feet into the stands.
This wasn't just any home run-it came during a left-on-left duel against Reds pitcher Brandon Williamson, and with two strikes already against him. After taking a sweeper for a strike and fouling off a cutter, Caglianone capitalized on a 94.8 mph fastball that drifted into the zone.
Reflecting on the at-bat, Caglianone noted, “He had a really good slider, and I knew he got Carter [Jensen] with it. So when I was down 0-2, I expected another one but stayed ready for the fastball. Luckily, I got one up enough to make solid contact.”
Manager Matt Quatraro highlighted the significance of the situation: “Whether it was the two strikes or facing a lefty, the effort level on that swing was a bit more relaxed, and that’s a valuable lesson for him-it doesn’t always need to be 100% to be effective.”
This spring is crucial for Caglianone, who is looking to rebound from a challenging rookie season where he posted a .157 average with a .532 OPS over 62 games. The Royals are offering him a chance to secure everyday at-bats in right field, and if he can consistently perform like he did with that home run, it could transform their lineup with added depth and impact.
Caglianone shared, “I feel more composed in game situations now. My first Spring Training was all about the excitement of being there, but now I’m focused on preparing for [March 27]. That mindset shift has been significant for me this spring.”
So far in Cactus League play, Caglianone is 3-for-8 with a home run, a walk, and two strikeouts. He's also shown promise in live batting practices, including a homer off Carlos Estevez recently.
While results are encouraging, the Royals are more interested in Caglianone’s approach at the plate. After dedicating the offseason to refining his swing decisions, he’s become his own toughest critic.
He's focused on understanding what leads to each outcome, like his disciplined take on a sinker that was called a strike in his last at-bat. Although it was off the plate, it was a moment of growth for him.
“That’s a pitch I would have swung at last year, likely breaking my bat,” Caglianone said. “But recognizing it and holding off felt like a win.”