The Kansas City Royals are wrapping up their spring training journey, leaving Surprise, Arizona, and gearing up for their final exhibition games against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field in Arlington. These games are set to offer a more authentic major league atmosphere as the Royals prepare for their season opener at Truist Park in Atlanta.
This spring has introduced several new faces to the Royals' lineup. Players like Lane Thomas and Mason Black have shown promise, while others, such as outfielder Isaac Collins, have struggled to find their footing. Collins, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers, was expected to bolster the Royals' outfield but has faced challenges this spring.
Collins has had a tough time, posting a .087/.192/.130 slash line with a 38.5% strikeout rate and a -6 wRC+ over 26 plate appearances. His performance woes have been compounded by injuries, including PRP injections in his knees and recent back and side tightness, which have hindered his spring training progress.
The Royals had high hopes for Collins, especially after his impressive fourth-place finish in the NL Rookie of the Year voting in 2025. His versatility in the outfield and potential impact at second base made him a key acquisition alongside Nick Mears, addressing critical needs for the team.
Now, as the Royals face the Rangers, Collins has an opportunity to reset and build momentum heading into the regular season. While these exhibition games may seem minor, they hold significant weight for Collins as he aims to prove his worth and secure a spot in Matt Quatraro's lineup for 2026.
A strong performance in these games might not completely change Collins' spring narrative, but it could provide a much-needed confidence boost. For a player once seen as a potential solution for the Royals' leadoff spot, ending spring training on a high note could be crucial.
As the Royals look to solidify their roster, Collins' goal is clear: demonstrate that he deserves to be a key part of the team's future, fulfilling the expectations of Royals fans eager to see him succeed.