Royals Spring Notebook: Kris Bubic Returns, Salvador Perez Reflects, and Young Arms Eye Opportunity
As the Royals ramp up for Cactus League play, the early storylines out of camp are already turning heads - and for good reason. From Kris Bubic’s return to the mound to Salvador Perez’s winter tune-up in Venezuela, there’s a healthy mix of optimism, competition, and a few intriguing roster questions as Kansas City enters a pivotal spring.
Kris Bubic Looks Sharp in Return from Injury
Kris Bubic took a major step forward this week, facing live hitters for the first time since an injury cut his season short last year. The left-hander wasn’t just going through the motions - he was dialed in. His fastball command looked crisp, and while he noted his changeup wasn’t quite as sharp as he’d like, the overall takeaway was encouraging: Bubic looked like himself again.
“Getting back out there is step No. 1,” Bubic said.
“Just seeing a hitter in the box again, hearing the feedback - it’s great. My teammates were with me during the rehab process, and their support means a lot.
We’re all excited to keep building.”
The Royals will be watching closely as Bubic continues to ramp up. If he can stay healthy and regain his form, he could be a key piece in a rotation that’s still taking shape.
Salvador Perez Gets a Head Start in Venezuela
Veteran catcher Salvador Perez didn’t wait until spring training to get his reps in. Instead, he logged 22 games in the Venezuelan Winter League, suiting up for Leones del Caracas - his mother’s favorite team - under manager Jose Alguacil.
“It was amazing,” Perez said. “I don’t remember the last time I played winter ball. It’s different facing live pitching in games instead of waiting a month for live BP here.”
For Perez, the experience wasn’t just sentimental - it was strategic. Getting into game shape early could give him a leg up as he prepares for another season behind the plate, where his leadership and durability continue to anchor the Royals’ clubhouse.
Ben Kudrna Embracing the Moment
Ben Kudrna is one of the more intriguing young arms in camp this year, and he’s approaching the opportunity with the right mindset.
“It’s a dream come true,” Kudrna said. “Now being here, I look at it as a big opportunity to learn.
You’ve got guys that have been there and done that. They have illustrious careers, and you don’t stay in this game that long unless you’re doing the right things.”
Kudrna’s development is something to watch this spring. He may not break camp with the big club, but this is a valuable chance for him to absorb knowledge, show off his stuff, and make a strong impression on the coaching staff.
Navigating the New ABS Challenge System
Pitching coach Brian Sweeney is helping the staff adjust to one of the more intriguing rule tweaks this spring: the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system. The system, which allows teams to challenge certain ball-strike calls, is still in the learning phase for many.
“I don’t think pitchers should challenge any call,” Sweeney said. “Let the guy behind the plate … who has the feel for it.”
That “guy” could be the catcher, or perhaps someone from the dugout. Either way, communication and strategy will be key. The Royals are leaning on input from their research and development team, as well as minor leaguers who’ve already had experience with the system.
“When do we use our challenges? Who calls them? Those are the questions we’re working through,” Sweeney said.
Bullpen Battle: Avila vs. Falter
With a few bullpen spots up for grabs, two names to keep an eye on are Ángel Zerpa Avila and Bailey Falter. Avila is still viewed as a potential starter long-term, but there’s growing belief that he could make an immediate impact out of the bullpen. His stuff ticked up in relief last year, and his curveball was especially nasty.
Falter, meanwhile, is out of options - which adds urgency to the Royals’ decision. He struggled after moving to the bullpen last season and ended the year on the injured list. But if he can find his footing, he could slot in as another lefty arm with upside.
Jac Caglianone Focused on Better Swing Decisions
Young slugger Jac Caglianone spent his offseason honing a specific part of his game: swing decisions. He admitted that he often got himself out more than pitchers did, a product of both the elite stuff he faced and the internal pressure of performing at the highest level.
“One of the biggest things I took away from last year was these guys are really good at throwing strike-to-ball pitches,” Caglianone said. “Out of the hand, it looks really good, and it ends up being a 58-foot curveball.”
Recognizing that and adjusting to it is part of the learning curve for any young hitter. If Caglianone can tighten his approach, his raw power could become a more consistent weapon in 2026.
Around the League: Royals Connections and Roster Moves
- Former Royals coach Gary Blaylock passed away this week at age 94, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and development within the organization.
- The Rangers signed former Royals outfielder Mark Canha to a minor league deal, giving him a shot at earning a roster spot.
- The Orioles acquired former Royals pitcher Jackson Kowar, while the Astros picked up infielder Cavan Biggio on a minor league deal.
- Arizona re-signed ace Zac Gallen to a one-year contract, keeping one of the league’s most consistent arms in the desert.
- The Brewers added veteran catcher Gary Sánchez on a one-year deal.
- Baltimore may be exploring trade options involving Coby Mayo or Ryan Mountcastle, a potential shakeup in their corner infield depth.
- Bryce Harper isn’t thrilled with recent comments from Phillies management questioning his status as an elite player - a storyline to monitor as spring unfolds.
- The Reds signed first baseman Nathaniel Lowe to a minor league deal, adding depth to their infield competition.
- In New York, questions are swirling about Jasson Domínguez’s role and whether he could be the odd man out in a crowded outfield.
- Kansas State made headlines by firing men’s basketball coach Jerome Tang “for cause,” a move that could send shockwaves through the college hoops landscape.
As the Royals prepare to open Cactus League play, the mix of returning veterans, hungry prospects, and evolving strategy sets the stage for a compelling spring. There’s still plenty to sort out, but the early signs - from Bubic’s recovery to Caglianone’s adjustments - point to a club ready to take meaningful steps forward in 2026.