Royals Kick Off Spring Training with Lineup Debuts

New faces and familiar names take the field as Royals begin exhibition games.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Kansas City Royals have kicked off their 2026 spring training schedule with an exhibition game featuring a mix of projected starters, non-roster invitees, and minor league prospects. While some key players like Isaac Collins and Kyle Isbel are absent, the lineup includes newcomer Kevin Newman trying to earn a utility spot and top prospect Jac Caglianone batting fifth in right field. Maikel Garcia leads off, potentially auditioning for the regular season leadoff role. On the mound, the Royals will get a look at several young pitchers including Stephen Kolek, Eric Cerantola, and Helcris Olivárez.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide the first glimpse of a team's roster and lineup ahead of the regular season. For the Royals, these early exhibition matchups will help determine position battles, evaluate young talent, and give managers a chance to experiment with different lineup configurations.

The details

The Royals' spring training opener features a mix of veteran and up-and-coming players. Non-roster invitee Kevin Newman is looking to earn a utility spot on the team, while top prospect Jac Caglianone is batting fifth and starting in right field. Maikel Garcia is leading off, potentially auditioning for the regular season leadoff role. On the mound, the Royals will get an early look at several young pitchers including Stephen Kolek, Eric Cerantola, and Helcris Olivárez.

  • The Royals' spring training schedule began on February 20, 2026.

The players

Kevin Newman

A non-roster invitee trying to earn a utility spot on the Royals' roster.

Jac Caglianone

A top Royals prospect batting fifth and starting in right field.

Maikel Garcia

Leading off for the Royals, potentially auditioning for the regular season leadoff role.

Stephen Kolek

The Royals' starting pitcher, expected to go two innings.

Eric Cerantola

One of the Royals' most important relief pitchers.

Helcris Olivárez

A minor league free agent signing with a big fastball, looking to improve his command and control.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a little disappointed we won't get our first 'look' at Isaac Collins in today's game - projected starters almost never enter as reserves in the back half of the game, the perks of being a veteran.”

— Jeremy Greco, Author (royalsreview.com)

The takeaway

The Royals' spring training opener provides an early glimpse of the team's roster and lineup as they prepare for the 2026 season. While some key players are absent, the game features a mix of veteran and up-and-coming talent, with several young pitchers getting a chance to showcase their skills.