In the sun-drenched fields of Surprise, Arizona, the Kansas City Royals and San Diego Padres faced off for the first time since their significant 2025 trade. This swap saw Freddy Fermin heading to the Padres in exchange for pitchers Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek, addressing the Royals' pitching needs while giving Fermin a shot at a regular catching role in the majors.
Saturday's game brought a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Fermin, donning the Padres' gear, took his place behind the plate against his former team, while Bergert started on the mound for the Royals.
Bergert, reflecting on the unique situation, shared, “Definitely a little weird walking out there and seeing them out there. Just different guys that I played with.
So it was fun and it was cool. Something I’ll remember for sure.”
He managed to keep Fermin in check, inducing a groundout to wrap up his scoreless inning in his spring debut.
Fermin didn't miss the chance to reconnect with his old teammates, sharing moments with Jonathan India, Bobby Witt Jr., and Vinnie Pasquantino. The highlight came with a warm embrace from Royals veteran Salvador Perez, underscoring the bond they built over years in Kansas City.
Bobby Witt Jr. praised Fermin's presence, saying, “He made a great play on me, too. Any time that you look at him, you’re smiling.
I saw him a little before the game. It’s fun to see him out there.”
Fermin's journey from the minors to the majors with the Royals is a tale of perseverance that resonated with Kansas City fans. He’ll return to familiar grounds at Kauffman Stadium in mid-July when the Padres visit for a three-game series.
As for Bergert and Kolek, they’re vying for spots on the Royals' pitching roster. Both showed promise last season and bring experience from high-stakes games. Bergert is focused on consistency, aiming to be a reliable force on the mound.
“That’s the biggest part of being a starting pitcher,” Bergert emphasized. “It’s having them be able to rely on you and they know what they are going to get every night or every five days that you go out there.
That’s probably the main thing. Show up every day and be the same person.”
This spring matchup was more than just a game; it was a reunion, a chance to reflect on past connections, and a glimpse into the promising futures of these players.