What is the story about?
In just two and a half weeks, the Royals will begin the regular season in Atlanta. We know most of the players that will make up the roster for that game, but a few players are fighting for the last few spots on the roster. Some of them are MLB veterans in camp as non-roster invitees. Some are former All-Stars, some have bounced around the league, but all are hoping for one more shot to be in the big leagues. Here are some of the candidates:
- Catcher Jorge Alfaro has over 500 games in the big leagues and catcher Elias Díaz was an All-Star in 2023 with the Rockies. Each is trying to make the team as a third catcher to allow the Royals to play Salvador Perez more at DH.
- Héctor Neris has 107 career MLB saves, and has posted high strikeout rates. The 36-year old is hoping to show he has something left in the tank. So is Aaron Sanchez, a former All-Star who hasn’t pitched in the big leagues since 2022 but was Pitcher of the Year in the Dominican Winter League.
- Sidearmer José Cuas is back with the Royals, hoping for another shot after spending all of last year in the minors.
- Helcris Olivárez has never pitched in the big leagues before, but is impressing with his velocity from the left side.
- Brandon Drury, Connor Kaiser, Josh Rojas, and Abraham Toro are all vying for a bench spot as backup infielders.
Which of these non-roster players has the best shot to make
the roster?
