Royals Acquire Pitcher Mitch Spence from Athletics

Kansas City sends RHP A.J. Causey to Oakland in the deal

Feb. 12, 2026 at 9:07pm

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The Kansas City Royals have acquired right-handed pitcher Mitch Spence from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for right-hander A.J. Causey. Spence was a Rule 5 draft pick by the A's in 2024 and has spent the past two seasons with the team, going 3-6 with a 5.10 ERA in 32 appearances in 2025.

Why it matters

This trade helps the Royals bolster their pitching staff as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 season. Spence provides depth and potential upside, while the A's clear a roster spot by moving on from the 25-year-old.

The details

As part of the deal, the Royals have placed right-hander Alec Marsh on the 60-day injured list to make room for Spence on the 40-man roster. Causey was in Royals camp as a non-roster invitee.

  • The trade was completed on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • Spence was designated for assignment by the A's on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Mitch Spence

A right-handed pitcher who was a Rule 5 draft pick by the Oakland Athletics in 2024 and has spent the past two seasons with the team.

A.J. Causey

A right-handed pitcher who was in Kansas City Royals camp as a non-roster invitee.

Alec Marsh

A right-handed pitcher for the Kansas City Royals who has been placed on the 60-day injured list to make room for Mitch Spence on the 40-man roster.

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The takeaway

This trade represents a low-risk move for the Royals to add pitching depth and potential as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Spence will get a chance to compete for a spot in the Royals' rotation or bullpen, while the A's clear a roster spot by moving on from the 25-year-old.