The Kansas City Royals are gearing up for the 2026 season, and while they may not be the first team on many fans' minds, they have some intriguing options in the minor leagues. Here are three veteran names the Royals should consider taking a flier on, and why they could be a smart move.
1. Reese McGuire: The Underrated Catcher
The Royals have already added a catcher on a minor-league deal, but if they're not confident in Luca Tresh's ability to take a big-league step forward, another addition could be in order. Reese McGuire, one of the league's most underrated fielding catchers in 2025, brings some major-league tools to the table. While his ABS may dampen the effect of framing balls and strikes, his 3 Framing Runs were in the 80th percentile last year in a part-time role with the Chicago Cubs. His solid arm and quick feet behind the plate make him a valuable asset. However, with an entrenched starter in Salvador Perez and a prospect pushing to take playing time from him in Carter Jensen, McGuire's future in Kansas City is uncertain. But, the Royals could give him a chance to keep playing in Triple-A Omaha with little competition, while also keeping the door cracked for a big-league return.
2. Emmanuel Rivera: The Versatile Third Baseman
If you remember the starting days of third baseman Emmanuel Rivera, chances are you watched a lot of losing Royals baseball. Drafted in the 19th round of the 2015 MLB Draft, Rivera was a fairly quick riser for that draft slot. With five seasons under his belt, a career .664 OPS, and average defense, he's looking for a new home. While a reunion may make Royals fans roll their eyes, Kansas City is dangerously shallow at both first and third base right now. Rivera's lack of flexibility could make him available on a minor-league deal, and putting him in a hitter-friendly Werner Park and International League could boost his confidence, stock, and value to the Royals if need be.
3. Joey Lucchesi: The Left-Handed Relief Pitcher
If a pitcher's stuff or health isn't going to allow a rotational role, then the relief corps could be their calling. One example that should be in more demand this offseason is left-handed pitcher Joey Lucchesi. After a successful season as a full-time reliever, Lucchesi performed well thanks to inducing weak contact and excellent control of his curveball. His expected 3.53 ERA ranked ninth in qualified left-handed pitchers, while his 54.2% groundball rate was in the top-10 in that same group. While he's not a strikeout savant and will allow the occasional home run, his command is excellent and he stayed in the strike zone with success. The Royals are especially hurting for left-handed options, and Lucchesi's arsenal traits make him a prime candidate to elevate to the bullpen this coming season.
