Not long ago, Nick Pratto was a first-round pick by the Kansas City Royals in the 2017 MLB Draft. A highly-regarded prospect, Pratto shined at Huntington Beach High School in California and drew comparisons to veteran MLB star Joey Votto. Scouts praised his natural hitting ability and defensive instincts at first base, with some even ranking him among the top defensive first base prospects in the league.
Pratto quickly climbed through the Royals’ minor-league system, earning the No. 3 spot in the team’s 2022 prospect rankings, behind Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez. That same year, he made his MLB debut against the Toronto Blue Jays, stepping in after several players were sidelined due to COVID restrictions. Pratto stayed with the major-league roster and, over 145 games, has posted a .216 batting average with 14 home runs and 55 RBIs.
However, Pratto has struggled with consistency at the plate, striking out 204 times in 464 career at-bats. His impact in 2024 was minimal, and with Vinnie Pasquantino firmly established as the everyday first baseman and Salvador Perez serving as the backup, Pratto found himself blocked at the MLB level. Now 26, Pratto knew this spring was a critical moment to make a change.
“The last couple of years have been unique for me,” Pratto said. “I’m just coming out here, laying it all on the line, and playing my brand of baseball. I think everyone here knows I’m capable of performing at my best, and it’ll be fun to show that again.”
Pratto is out of minor-league options, meaning he must secure a spot on the roster or face being designated for assignment. The Royals are evaluating their bench and reserve roles, giving Pratto an opportunity to compete. His clearest path to making the team lies in his ability to provide left-handed power. This offseason, the Royals sought a middle-of-the-order presence, and Pratto showed some potential in Triple-A Omaha, hitting 16 home runs with a .735 OPS in 115 games. Still, his 30.4% strikeout rate highlighted ongoing struggles with plate discipline.
To address these issues, Pratto spent the offseason at Driveline Baseball, refining his swing mechanics with the goal of driving the ball to all fields. “I’m focused on taking good at-bats, hitting the ball hard, and being clean on the field,” he said.
Pratto is now competing with Nelson Velázquez, Drew Waters, Joey Wiemer, Cavan Biggio, and Harold Castro for the final bench spots. To improve his chances, he has also transitioned to a full-time outfield role, a change he’s embracing. “This is the first time I’ve been able to go through this process healthy,” Pratto said. “I feel good out there and comfortable. Getting my legs under me and adjusting to the day-to-day will be key.”
With two weeks left until opening day, Pratto is focused on proving he belongs on the Royals’ roster. “I think they want to see me perform at my best again,” he said. “Regardless of what happens, I know I’m prepared and ready to go.”
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