The Royals did not make big moves this offseason, but arguably the biggest move they made was signing All-Star infielder Maikel Garcia to a five-year, $57.5 million contract. The move rewards the 26-year-old for a breakout season and keeps him in Kansas City potentially through 2031, buying out two years of free agency.
But should the Garcia be the only player signed to a long-term deal? Spring training is sometimes when long-term deals are worked out. There are a few other Royals candidates worth
considering.
Vinnie Pasquantino avoided arbitration with a two-year deal, but he would still have a year of arbitration before being eligible for free agency after the 2028 season. The first baseman has been a vocal leader on the team and had a breakout season with 32 home runs and 113 RBI, but the Royals have Jac Caglianone, whose natural position is first base, and Vinnie will be 31 by the time he hits free agency.
Cole Ragans is also on a short-term multi-year deal through 2027, but would also be eligible for free agency after the 2028 season. When healthy, he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball, but he has battled injury issues and has had two Tommy John surgeries in his career.
Lucas Erceg has proved to be a valuable bullpen weapon, and is not eligible for free agency until after 2029. The Royals may want to avoid arbitration with him by signing him to a long-term deal, although he is already in his 30s, which makes long-term deals a bit dicey.
Noah Cameron is coming off a terrific rookie season, but it may be worth locking him up to control costs and reward him for a breakout performance. If the Royals want to be aggressive, they could also sign Carter Jensen or Jac Caglianone to long-term deals. Signing players very early before they breakout is usually cheaper for teams, but it brings risk if that player does not reach his potential.
What do you think? Would you look to sign any other Royals players to long-term deals?
