Kansas City Royals Fine-Tune Roster Ahead of Season

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Kansas City Royals players practicing on a baseball field

News Summary

As Opening Day approaches, the Kansas City Royals are making strategic roster adjustments. They have sent Nick Pratto and Nelson Velázquez to Triple-A Omaha while adding veteran Mark Canha. Carlos Hernandez has been claimed off waivers, creating space for new opportunities. Daniel Lynch IV remains in the bullpen, and the team is assessing Vinnie Pasquantino’s health as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Kansas City Royals Fine-Tune Roster as Opening Day Approaches

As the excitement builds for the start of the Major League Baseball season, the Kansas City Royals are making some key roster adjustments. The buzz around the team is palpable, especially with the countdown to opening day ticking down! Let’s dig into the latest news that’s shaping the Royals as they gear up for another year on the diamond.

Roster Changes for Pratto and Velázquez

In a move that has fans talking, the Royals have outrighted outfielders Nick Pratto and Nelson Velázquez to Triple-A Omaha after both players cleared waivers. This decision comes after their less-than-stellar performances in spring training. Pratto locked in a batting average of just .200, going 6-for-30, while Velázquez fared slightly better with a .208 average, hitting 5-for-24. Both players were vying for a spot on the big-league roster but found it tough to impress during the Cactus League play.

Introducing Mark Canha to the Royals

On the flip side, the Royals have bolstered their lineup with the acquisition of seasoned outfielder Mark Canha from the Milwaukee Brewers. At 36 years old, Canha has a wealth of experience under his belt, having played for multiple teams including the Oakland Athletics, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers, and San Francisco Giants. He brings a career batting average of .249 and 120 home runs to the Royals’ roster. Canha’s spring training didn’t quite knock anyone’s socks off, though, as he struggled to a batting average of .087, going 2-for-23 with just one home run. Despite this, the addition of Canha is expected to add depth to the team’s bench, and he has already been inserted into the 40-man roster, sparking a flurry of necessary moves.

A Look at Carlos Hernandez’s Departure

In other news, right-handed relief pitcher Carlos Hernandez was claimed off waivers by the Philadelphia Phillies. Hernandez faced a challenging spring season, finishing with a 6.97 ERA and ends his tenure with the Royals sporting a total of 150 appearances and a career 4.95 ERA. His exit opens a spot but also represents a lost opportunity for the pitcher, who had not been able to capitalize on his minor-league options.

Keeping an Eye on Daniel Lynch IV

Meanwhile, the Royals’ bullpen is looking to stay strong. They have decided to keep Daniel Lynch IV, a left-handed pitcher, as part of their eight-man bullpen. Lynch will hope to play a big role, solidifying the pitching staff as they head into the season.

Remaining Flexibility in the Roster

Currently, Kansas City stands with 37 players on their 40-man roster, allowing for a bit of room for any potential last-minute additions. The Royals have just two exhibition games left against the Texas Rangers before diving into the regular season, providing a final chance for players to showcase their skills.

Potential Health Concerns Ahead of Opening Day

In slightly worrisome news, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino left a recent game due to a right hamstring strain. The team is currently evaluating his condition to determine whether he will be ready in time for opening day. Fans will surely be keeping their fingers crossed for good news on this front!

As the countdown to opening day continues, the Royals remain busy making adjustments. Whether it’s players stepping up or new faces like Mark Canha making their mark, it’s going to be an exciting season ahead in Kansas City!