The Kansas City Royals have two young sluggers turning heads with strong starts during this year’s spring training.
The Kansas City Royals used the offseason to try to bolster their lineup in an effort to improve offensively. They made notable moves, including trading for Isaac Collins and signing Lane Thomas in free agency, but did not make the blockbuster addition many fans were hoping for.
banking on development from a couple of key young players to help the lineup produce more. Jac Caglianone and Carter Jensen are two players Kansas City is counting on to make an impact in 2026. So far this spring training, both Caglianone and Jensen have looked comfortable and appear to be gearing up for a successful season.Feb 20, 2026; Surprise, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen and right fielder Jac Caglianone in the dugout prior to the game against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images After being called up to the big leagues in early June 2025, Caglianone struggled at the plate, slashing .157/.237/.295 over 210 at-bats. Whether the pressure was fair or not, it was there when he received the call, as many believed he could provide a spark for a struggling Royals offense. Now, he has the opportunity to reset with a fresh slate and a clear mind entering the upcoming season. That mindset is already evident through the first stretch of Cactus League play, as he has shown more consistency at the plate along with the power that makes him such an intriguing bat. Caglianone launched his first home run of camp 460 feet. He most recently went 2-for-4 with three RBIs in a spring game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, highlighted by aThings unfolded differently for Jensen, who was called up during the final month of the 2025 regular season, limiting the pressure during his stint. He found early success, slashing .300/.391/.550 over 60 at-bats.of camp and went 3-for-3 in the same game against the Diamondbacks. During his debut month in 2025, his ability to adjust to big league pitching stood out, and that same approach has been on display again this spring. Caglianone will have an opportunity to showcase his development on a larger stage before Opening Day, as he is set to represent Team Italy in this year’s World Baseball Classic. Jensen and Caglianone have opened camp on a strong note this spring. If their development progresses as the Royals expect, both could play key roles in Kansas City’s lineup in 2026.BRIAN SPARKS Brian Sparks is a graduate of the University of Missouri–Kansas City with a background in digital journalism and sports media. Born and raised in Kansas City, he brings experience in writing, radio, and social media to sports coverage across multiple digital platforms.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Buster Olney's 2026 top 10 at every MLB position: Corner outfieldersDo any fast-rising young outfielders beat out these two New York sluggers on our top 10? Let's find out.
Read more »
Mariners and Royals battle to a 8-8 draw in Cactus League actionBoth the Seattle Mariners and Kansas City Royals went the distance on Wednesday afternoon, without either one hitting the canvas
Read more »
Surveillance video shows Loop break-in; Wrigleyville's Sluggers also hit in overnight crimeAt least three businesses across the city were broken into overnight, police say their ATMs seem to be the target.
Read more »
Utah Royals FC unveils 'Swarm Kit,' a tribute to Utah's values and identityUtah Royals FC today unveiled the club’s new “Swarm Kit,” an expression of Utah’s Beehive State identity and a celebration of the unity, industry, and shared pu
Read more »
Royals' Jac Caglianone Flashing Superstar Potential With Spring BreakoutThe Kansas City Royals have a potential superstar on their hands and he's only getting started...
Read more »
Diamondbacks Complete Massive Comeback Win over RoyalsGood thing these games don't count, yet.
Read more »