Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino Avoids Arbitration

Signs two-year, $11 million contract extension with Kansas City

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Vinnie Pasquantino, the Royals' first baseman, has signed a two-year, $11 million contract extension with the team, avoiding arbitration. Pasquantino had a breakout 2025 season, playing in all but two games and posting career-highs in home runs (32), RBIs (113), and runs scored (72).

Why it matters

Pasquantino's extension provides stability and cost certainty for the Royals as they look to build around their young core of players. Avoiding arbitration also allows the team and player to focus on the upcoming season without the distraction of contract negotiations.

The details

Pasquantino's new contract will cover his first two seasons of arbitration eligibility, meaning he'll have one year left before becoming a free agent after the 2028 season. The deal provides financial security for the 25-year-old first baseman, who emerged as one of the Royals' top offensive threats in 2025.

  • Pasquantino signed the two-year, $11 million contract on January 30, 2026.

The players

Vinnie Pasquantino

A 25-year-old first baseman for the Kansas City Royals who had a breakout 2025 season, setting career-highs in several offensive categories.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri that is looking to build around its young core of players.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Pasquantino played in all but two games for the Royals in 2025, slashing .264/.323/.475 across 682 plate appearances while tallying career-high totals in home runs (32), RBI (113) and runs scored (72).”

— Rotowire Staff (cbssports.com)

The takeaway

Pasquantino's contract extension is a positive sign for the Royals, as they look to lock up one of their young, promising players and provide stability to their lineup as they aim to compete in the coming seasons.