MLB analyst proposes the Royals' success could come down to a young slugger

The Kansas City Royals are coming off a trying season in 2025. They were an exciting team that was missing just a few pieces to push them into the postseason. 

So, during the offseason, the front office was kept plenty busy, trying to put a better product on the field for the 2026 season. While they didn't make any big splashes, they did sign a few arms in Matt Strahm, Nick Mears, Alex Lange, John Means, and Eli Morgan. 

Offensively, they struck deals with Lane Thomas, Starling Marte, Kameron Misner, and Luke Maile. 

MORE: Royals trade pitch sends All-Star left-hander to Yankees for outfielder with 'sky-high' potential

MLB analyst proposes the Royals' success could come down to a young slugger

There were a few reasons why the royals could not capitalize during the 2025 season. They were without a big chunk of their rotation in Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic, who both came into camp healthy, which is a great sign. 

Another reason the Royals' 2025 season did not end as they hoped was that they struggled to drive in runs with runners on base. And that will need to change if they want to be a problem in the AL Central.

Some sluggers are going to have to step up this season, and Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly puts that pressure on Jac Caglianone. 

"The success of Kansas City's outfield—and perhaps how the lineup around Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez looks—could come down to Jac Caglianone. After flashing prolific power in the minors, Caglianone posted just a .532 OPS in his first 62 games a year ago."

Caglinaone did not have the best debut last year, but he has all the tools to be great at this level. With his World Baseball Classic trip with Team Italy, maybe that has given him the boost he needs to be great and take the next step this season.

More MLB news:

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• Orioles projected to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season
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• Mariners' fans should be fired up after seeing the latest season projection