Royals Eyed as Potential Trade Fit for Pirates Star Outfielder

Oneil Cruz could provide the power bat Kansas City needs to boost its offense.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:20pm

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The Kansas City Royals are reportedly interested in acquiring Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz, who has emerged as a trade candidate if the Pirates fall out of contention this season. Cruz, a former top prospect, would provide the Royals with a much-needed power bat and speed in the outfield as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 campaign.

Why it matters

The Royals struggled offensively last season, missing the playoffs, and are looking to upgrade their lineup. Cruz, a rising star with three years of club control remaining, could be a long-term solution in center field if the Royals can strike a deal with the rebuilding Pirates.

The details

Cruz, 24, made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 2021 and finished sixth in National League Rookie of the Year voting the following year. He has transitioned from shortstop to center field, providing versatility. In 2025, Cruz hit .200 with 20 home runs and 38 stolen bases, a bit of a down year, but he still flashed the power and speed that make him an enticing trade target.

  • The Royals are 2-2 to start the 2026 season.
  • Oneil Cruz made his MLB debut with the Pirates in 2021.
  • Cruz finished sixth in NL Rookie of the Year voting in 2022.

The players

Oneil Cruz

A 24-year-old center fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who has emerged as a trade candidate with three years of club control remaining.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team that is reportedly interested in acquiring Oneil Cruz to boost their offense and outfield after missing the playoffs in 2025.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The MLB team that currently employs Oneil Cruz and may look to trade him if they fall out of contention this season.

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What they’re saying

“If Carter Jensen and Jac Caglianone don't pan out this season, then the Royals are going to need to pick up a bat or two at the trade deadline.”

— Zachary D. Rymer, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Royals will need to determine if they have the prospect capital to acquire Oneil Cruz from the Pirates, who may look to trade him if they fall out of contention this season.

The takeaway

The Royals' interest in Oneil Cruz highlights their need to upgrade their offense and outfield after missing the playoffs in 2025. Cruz's power, speed, and remaining club control make him an enticing trade target, but the Royals will have to weigh the cost of acquiring him against their long-term roster needs.