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Royals could make a painful but brilliant move to build around Jac Caglianone

The Kansas City Royals will have to get creative with their roster if they wish to get the most out of star Jac Caglianone.

By Matthew Swigonski · Kings of Kauffman

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 1:14 PM

Key Things to Know

Writer Matthew Swigonski argues the Kansas City Royals should trade first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino to accommodate Jac Caglianone.
Caglianone struggled defensively in right field during 2026 with -9 Outs Above Average, projecting better as a first baseman.
Pasquantino is projected to earn around $7 million in 2027 after finishing 2026 with a Gold Glove nomination.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Matthew Swigonski argues that the Kansas City Royals should consider trading first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino this offseason to build around young slugger Jac Caglianone. Although Caglianone posted an .834 OPS in 2026, his outfield defense struggled with -9 Outs Above Average in right field. Swigonski suggests shifting Caglianone to first base to minimize defensive liabilities.

Moving Caglianone to first base would displace Pasquantino, who is projected to earn roughly $7 million in 2027. Swigonski highlights that Pasquantino rebounded with eight home runs in September and earned a Gold Glove nomination, making this an ideal time to trade him for pitching depth.

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Royals could make a painful but brilliant move to build around Jac Caglianone

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