Royals Spring Training Update: Key Storylines as Opening Day Approaches
SURPRISE, Ariz - The Royals' clubhouse felt like home again on Wednesday afternoon. Vinnie Pasquantino was back, mingling with teammates, while Jac Caglianone shared laughs with Carter Jensen. Carlos Estévez captivated a group of Latin American pitchers with his stories, bringing a lively energy to the room.
Salvador Perez’s unmistakable voice echoed throughout the complex, a familiar sound that signaled the return of the team’s heart and soul. As the pitchers stretched on the conditioning field, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia entered to a warm round of applause, celebrating Garcia's recent triumph as the World Baseball Classic MVP with Venezuela.
“It’s good to be back,” Seth Lugo remarked. “Seeing familiar faces and getting back into the routine feels great. Things were a bit hectic, but now it's time to focus.”
Vinnie Pasquantino, reflecting on his time as Italy’s captain, added, “I’m still trying to catch up on sleep. It’s been a whirlwind.”
With the squad reunited, here are three crucial areas to watch as we approach Opening Day, just nine days away:
1. Bullpen Battles
The starting rotation seems locked in with Cole Ragans leading on Opening Day, followed by Michael Wacha, Lugo, Kris Bubic, and Noah Cameron. Bailey Falter is prepping as a swingman/long reliever, influencing the bullpen dynamics.
Estévez, Lucas Erceg, Matt Strahm, John Schreiber, and Nick Mears are solidified in their roles. With Alex Lange out of options, he’s likely to join them.
If Falter makes the cut, there’s one bullpen spot left. Daniel Lynch IV might edge out others if the Royals opt for another lefty reliever alongside Strahm.
Steven Cruz has shown promise this spring, and the Royals face a decision with Luinder Avila, who impressed at the WBC. He could start in Triple-A or join the bullpen.
2. Health Watch
Staying healthy is every team’s spring goal, and the Royals have had their share of minor injuries.
Isaac Collins returned to action as a designated hitter and is set to play in the field soon after dealing with a back/side issue. The Royals need to gauge his readiness for the season.
Michael Massey is nursing a left calf strain but is taking at-bats in Minor League games. His Opening Day status hinges on his ability to run at full capacity, weighing the benefits of a possible short injured list stint.
Estévez is also under the microscope. Despite pitching a scoreless inning recently, he felt “out of sync” after a long break since his last WBC appearance. His fastball velocity is a tick below last season’s average, and building him back up is a priority.
“Adrenaline changes everything for me,” Estévez noted. “It’s strange, but it’s just how it is.”
3. Final Bench Decisions
The position player roster is shaping up, but two spots remain open. One is likely for Massey if healthy.
Contenders for the final spot include Nick Loftin, Tyler Tolbert, Drew Waters, Abraham Toro, Josh Rojas, Kevin Newman, and Brandon Drury. Loftin, Tolbert, and Waters have roster advantages, with Waters out of options.
The Royals’ decision will heavily depend on the overall health of the roster. If managing at-bats for Collins or Massey is necessary, they might lean towards a player who can provide consistent offensive contributions.
As the Royals gear up for the season, these storylines will be pivotal in shaping their Opening Day roster. Fans should keep a close eye on these developments as the countdown continues.