With his big-league spring training now complete, Kansas City Royals top prospect Jac Caglianone has plenty to celebrate. The 22-year-old slugger put on a show, going 9-for-17 with three home runs and a jaw-dropping 1.872 OPS against elite competition. Despite his standout performance, Caglianone was optioned to minor-league camp on Monday and will begin the season at Double-A Northwest Arkansas. While this move isn’t surprising—given his brief stint in High-A last season—his phenomenal spring has fans and analysts buzzing about a potential rapid rise to the majors.
Royals general manager J.J. Picollo fueled those hopes with his recent comments, suggesting Caglianone’s big-league debut could come as early as this season. “Just because he’s not on our Opening Day roster doesn’t mean we’re not going to be open-minded to him being on the team at some point,” Picollo told Anne Rogers of MLB.com. “Regardless, I think he’s going to be a fast mover to the Major Leagues. It’s just a matter of when we feel secure that when he comes up, we have less doubt about having to option him back.”
Caglianone’s elite power is undeniable. With over 30 home runs in back-to-back seasons at the University of Florida, he’s a legitimate 70-grade power hitter who could threaten 40 homers annually once he settles into a full-time major-league role. However, the Royals still need to determine his long-term defensive position. With Vinnie Pasquantino firmly entrenched at first base, Caglianone will likely see time in the outfield as he progresses through the minors, though Kansas City seems committed to developing him as a primary first baseman for now.
Even if Caglianone ends up spending significant time as a designated hitter, his bat has the potential to transform the Royals’ lineup. How quickly he makes an impact could also play a pivotal role in the team’s playoff aspirations. For now, Royals fans can dream of Caglianone’s arrival, knowing his path to the majors may be shorter than expected.
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