3 More Veteran Names the Royals Should Take a Minor League Flier On for 2026
The Royals' Minor League Pipeline: A Goldmine of Hidden Gems
If fans think trying to predict which team will sign which free agent is a futile experiment, that sentiment has to apply exponentially to minor-league free agents. But here's where it gets interesting: the Royals have the opportunity to uncover some hidden gems in the minor-league ranks. While some fans might be skeptical about the team's recent additions, like Taylor Clarke, Jorge Alfaro, Abraham Toro, and Josh Rojas, it's time to explore three more veteran names who could be worth a minor-league flier for the 2026 season.
1. C Reese McGuire: A Catching Conundrum
The Royals have already added a catcher on a minor-league deal, but if they don't trust Luca Tresh to take a big-league step forward, then another addition may be in order. Enter Reese McGuire, one of the league's most underrated fielding catchers in 2025. ABS may dampen the effect of framing balls and strikes, but McGuire was one of the league's best at stealing strikes. His 3 Framing Runs were in the 80th percentile last year in a part-time role with the Chicago Cubs. Add in his solid arm and quick feet behind the plate, and McGuire brings some major-league tools to the table. As one of the more well-known catchers left remaining on the free agent market, it's uncertain if McGuire would take a minor-league deal. But the Royals' competitive outlook for 2026 could be an allure for him. The Royals could give McGuire a chance to keep playing in Triple-A Omaha with little competition, while also keeping the door cracked for a big-league return.
2. 3B Emmanuel Rivera: A Puerto Rican Power Hitter
If you remember the starting days of third baseman Emmanuel Rivera, chances are you watched a lot of losing Royals baseball. Kansas City drafted the Puerto Rican in the 19th round of the 2015 MLB Draft, and he was a fairly quick riser for that draft slot. He made his major-league debut in 2021, before he was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2022. Now with five seasons under his belt, with a career .664 OPS and average defense, Rivera is looking for a new home. A reunion may make Royals fans roll their eyes, but Kansas City is dangerously shallow at both first and third base right now. Rivera's lack of flexibility could make him available on such a minor-league deal. At the end of the day, Rivera is still young in the grand scheme of the league, and any opportunity is still an opportunity. Putting Rivera in a hitter-friendly Werner Park and International League could boost his confidence, stock, and value to the Royals if need be.
3. LHP Joey Lucchesi: A Left-Handed Relief Ace
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. This past season was the first of Lucchesi's as a full-time reliever, and he 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. He is not a strikeout savant and will allow the occasional home run, but his command is excellent and he stayed in the strike zone with success. No team can have enough bullpen arms, but the Royals are especially hurting for left-handed options. Southpaws Angel Zerpa and Sam Long are no longer on the 40-man roster, and former starter Daniel Lynch IV hasn't been flawless in recent years. Lucchesi has some arsenal traits that Kansas City likes and they can build upon. Kansas City seems a prime team to elevate a left-handed pitcher to the bullpen this coming season, need or want withstanding. Lucchesi needs a landing spot and could want to pick a favorable spot like the Royals ahead of pitchers and catchers reporting.
But here's where it gets controversial...
While the Royals' minor-league pipeline is a goldmine of hidden gems, it's important to remember that not all minor-league free agents are created equal. Some may be overrated or not ready for the big leagues. It's up to the Royals' front office to carefully evaluate each prospect and determine if they are worth a flier. And this is the part most people miss: the Royals' minor-league system is not just about finding the next big star, but also about developing players who can contribute to the team's success in the near future. So, while these three veteran names may be worth a flier, it's important to keep an open mind and consider the team's overall needs and goals for the 2026 season.
What do you think? Agree or disagree? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
