As the Kansas City Royals gear up for their 2026 spring training, all eyes are on two promising pitchers aiming to make their mark in the rotation. Stephen Kolek and Ryan Bergert are set to take the mound in the Royals’ Cactus League opener, with Kolek facing the Rangers on Friday and Bergert squaring off against his former team, the Padres, on Saturday.
The Royals’ rotation might seem set with Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, Kris Bubic, and Noah Cameron leading the charge. However, the competition is still fierce, and the upcoming games provide a golden opportunity for Kolek and Bergert to stake their claim.
Ragans, Lugo, and Wacha are likely locked in for the top three spots. If Kris Bubic remains with the team, he’s expected to secure a position as well.
This leaves the fifth spot up for grabs, with Noah Cameron as the frontrunner after an impressive rookie season. Yet, the sophomore slump is a real challenge, and Cameron will need to prove he deserves to keep his spot.
Recent reports suggest the Royals view the fifth rotation spot as competitive, with Cameron holding a slight edge. However, several other pitchers, including Kolek and Bergert, are eager to make their case.
The possibility of a Kris Bubic trade has been a topic of conversation throughout the offseason. While it seems unlikely, a trade could shake things up, potentially opening another spot in the rotation.
Manager Matt Quatraro has hinted at the possibility of an occasional six-man rotation, adding another layer of intrigue to the mix. Injuries, always a concern, could also create opportunities for pitchers like Kolek and Bergert to step up.
In 2025, Bergert showed promise with a 4.43 ERA in eight starts for the Royals, and a solid 3.66 ERA over 76.1 innings combined with San Diego and Kansas City. Kolek was a revelation, posting a 1.91 ERA, 0.76 WHIP, and .167 BAA in five starts, providing a crucial boost during the Royals’ injury struggles.
While one start in the Cactus League won’t seal any fates, a strong performance could leave a lasting impression on the Royals’ decision-makers. For Kolek and Bergert, this weekend is about setting the tone and making a compelling case for inclusion in the rotation as the season approaches.