Free extension for sports fans
Advertisement
Advertisement

After breakout 2026 with the bat, all eyes on Caglianone’s defensive growth

Welcome back to the Royals Beat newsletter. MLB.com digital content fellow Perla Paredes wrote this edition. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 11:11 AM
After breakout 2026 with the bat, all eyes on Caglianone’s defensive growth
Key Things to Know
  • Jac Caglianone's defensive role faces evaluation for 2027 following a breakout offensive season with the Kansas City Royals.
  • Caglianone led the Royals in 2026 with a .289 batting average, .494 slugging percentage, and an .834 OPS.
  • He posted a .930 OPS across 39 appearances at first base while filling in for injured Vinnie Pasquantino.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Jac Caglianone established himself as one of the Kansas City Royals' premier hitters during a breakout 2026 campaign, but questions surround his defensive positioning heading into 2027. After struggling as a rookie in 2025, the 23-year-old led Kansas City in batting average (.289), slugging percentage (.494), and OPS (.834), while contributing 23 home runs and 75 RBIs.

While Caglianone spent 95 games in right field, injuries complicated his time there, and he recorded minus-9 outs above average. He impressed during 39 appearances at first base while filling in for the injured Vinnie Pasquantino, posting a .930 OPS at the position, making his defensive role a key offseason evaluation.

Advertisement

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.