Kansas City Royals Finalize Opening Day Roster for Upcoming Season
The Royals have finalized their 26-man roster for the upcoming season, making several key moves. Infielder Michael Massey and pitchers Stephen Kolek and James McArthur have been placed on the Injured List, allowing Tyler Tolbert to secure a spot on the team. Outfielder Drew Waters has been designated for assignment, while reliever Eli Morgan has been added to the 40-man roster and optioned to Triple-A Omaha.
The Opening Day roster includes catchers Carter Jensen and Salvador Perez, infielders Maikel Garcia, Jonathan India, Nick Loftin, Vinnie Pasquantino, Tyler Tolbert, and Bobby Witt Jr., outfielders Jac Caglianone, Isaac Collins, Kyle Isbel, Starling Marte, and Lane Thomas, starting pitchers Kris Bubic, Noah Cameron, Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Michael Wacha, and relievers Lucas Erceg, Carlos Estévez, Bailey Falter, Alex Lange, Daniel Lynch IV, Nick Mears, John Schreiber, and Matt Strahm.
Isaac Collins has recovered from knee and back injuries suffered in spring training and avoided the Injured List. Massey, Kolek, and McArthur were sidelined due to various injuries, with Massey dealing with a calf strain, Kolek with a Grade 1 oblique strain, and McArthur recovering from elbow surgery. Waters was let go after a lackluster performance last season.
The Royals will kick off their season against the Braves in Atlanta on Friday evening, with Cole Ragans set to take the mound for the opening game. The team is looking to start the season on a strong note and build momentum for a successful campaign.