Royals' Jac Caglianone Poised for Breakout Season in 2026

Kansas City counting on young outfielder to boost offense after struggles in 2025 debut

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Jac Caglianone, the Kansas City Royals' 23-year-old outfielder, is primed for a breakout season in 2026 after a difficult MLB debut in 2025. Despite slashing just .157/.237/.295 in 232 plate appearances last year, the Royals are expecting big things from their former first-round pick as they aim to win the AL Central division.

Why it matters

The Royals are counting on Caglianone to provide a much-needed offensive boost after finishing fifth-worst in MLB in runs scored last season. With a talented infield core, the team’s success could hinge on whether Caglianone can translate his elite power potential to the major league level.

The details

Caglianone struggled in his first taste of the majors in 2025, his first full season of professional baseball. After advancing through Double-A and Triple-A, the two-way college player had to adjust to being a full-time outfielder while also dealing with a hamstring injury that sidelined him for an extended period. Now with a year of experience under his belt, the Royals are hoping Caglianone can take a big step forward and become a key part of their lineup.

  • Caglianone made his MLB debut for the Royals in 2025.
  • The 2026 season will be Caglianone’s second year in the majors.

The players

Jac Caglianone

A 23-year-old outfielder and former first-round draft pick of the Kansas City Royals.

Kansas City Royals

A Major League Baseball team based in Kansas City, Missouri that is aiming to win the AL Central division in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Caglianone struggled in his first taste of the majors last year, slashing .157/.237/.295 in 232 plate appearances. It was also a lot to ask of him. The 2025 season represented Caglianone’s first full season of pro ball, which saw him advance through Double-A and Triple-A, land in the majors and sit out extended time because of a hamstring strain, all while learning right field.”

— Alden Gonzalez, ESPN Writer (ESPN)

“Now that he has had a chance to breathe, the Royals are expecting big things from their 23-year-old former first-round pick. They need it. The Royals are trying to win the AL Central and will have no chance of doing so if they repeat a year that saw them score the fifth-fewest runs in the majors.”

— Alden Gonzalez, ESPN Writer (ESPN)

What’s next

The Royals will be closely monitoring Caglianone’s progress and performance throughout spring training and the 2026 season as they look to him to provide a major offensive boost.

The takeaway

After a difficult MLB debut in 2025, Jac Caglianone has a chance to emerge as a key part of the Royals’ lineup in 2026 and help the team contend in the AL Central. His development will be crucial for a Kansas City offense that struggled mightily last season.