Vinnie Pasquantino Locks In with Royals, Eyes Big 2026 After Breakout Season
The Kansas City Royals just took another step in solidifying their young core, and this time it’s Vinnie Pasquantino getting the nod. The first baseman, fresh off a career-best season, has agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal that includes performance escalators pushing the total value up to $15.7 million. The move keeps Pasquantino under club control through 2028 - and gives the Royals some much-needed stability at a key corner infield spot.
Pasquantino, who was a late addition to the Royals Rally fan event on Saturday, had been in the middle of his first arbitration process. It’s a notoriously awkward rite of passage for many players, and Pasquantino didn’t shy away from admitting it felt strange. But in the end, both sides found common ground.
“Happy to be here, and I’m glad we got that done,” Pasquantino said. “They didn’t have to do that...
I think both sides are taking on some risk. I think both sides understand the value there, and I’m happy we got it done.”
That mutual understanding speaks volumes. The Royals are betting on a player who showed serious pop in 2025 - a .264 average with 32 home runs and 113 RBIs across 160 games.
That’s not just solid production; that’s middle-of-the-order thunder. And for a Royals lineup that’s starting to take shape around Bobby Witt Jr., Pasquantino’s bat provides crucial protection and balance.
What makes this deal even more significant is the context. Pasquantino’s path to this point hasn’t been without hurdles.
He had right shoulder surgery early in his career and missed time in 2024 with a fractured thumb. But 2025 was different - he stayed healthy, played nearly every game, and looked like the kind of hitter who could anchor a lineup for years to come.
This offseason, he’s been able to train without limitations. That’s a big deal for a hitter who thrives on rhythm and timing.
“It was just a healthy offseason,” Pasquantino said. “I think I started hitting in October this year just because I wanted to and because I enjoy hitting. So it was nice to enjoy what I was doing again instead of worrying if I was feeling good.”
That joy is translating into confidence. Pasquantino says he’s in the best shape of his life and ready to hit the ground running in Surprise, Arizona, when full-squad workouts begin on February 16.
But he won’t be sticking around long - he’s suiting up for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic, which kicks off March 4. That gives him an early chance to face live pitching and fine-tune his swing against international competition.
“We worked really hard this offseason and I’m in the best shape of my life,” Pasquantino said. “... I knew the body was ready, so it was let’s get the skills up to par.”
There’s a lot riding on Pasquantino’s bat this season. The Royals have been aggressive in building around their young stars, locking in Witt, Maikel Garcia, and Cole Ragans. Now Pasquantino joins that group, and his contract could end up being a bridge to a longer-term extension if he continues trending upward.
General manager J.J. Picollo echoed that sentiment, noting that the deal came together through steady dialogue. “In the end, he was going to be a Royal, and he was going to have a significant raise from last year to this year,” Picollo said.
Kansas City’s offense is also getting a facelift. New additions Lane Thomas and Isaac Collins bring athleticism and depth to the outfield, while prospects Jac Caglianone and Carter Jensen are expected to take on larger roles.
But make no mistake - Pasquantino is a centerpiece. His left-handed power, plate discipline, and steady glove at first base make him a foundational piece as the Royals aim to climb back into contention.
And with the WBC on the horizon and spring training just weeks away, Pasquantino’s timing couldn’t be better. He’s healthy, locked in, and ready to lead.
“This will be a weird spring with the WBC,” he said. “We have a lot of guys playing, so it’s a great opportunity for some guys to get on the field in front of the big-league coaches.”
For the Royals, it’s another sign that the rebuild is starting to take shape. And for Pasquantino, it’s a well-earned reward - and a chance to keep proving he’s one of the cornerstones of Kansas City’s future.