KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals are signing the right-handed platoon bat they were reportedly after earlier this offseason on Friday, multiple reports say.
The Royals are reportedly signing Lane Thomas, a right-handed outfielder, a free agent most recently with the division rival Cleveland Guardians. Reports show the deal is for one year and is worth $5.25 million with $1 million in incentives.
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The 29-year-old comes in off an unhealthy and rather unproductive 2025 season, but has certainly shown he’s capable in the past. For example, when Thomas hit his grand slam off 2024 and 2025 Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal in the American League Division Series.
Earlier in the offseason, a handful of reports claimed that the Royals were after a platoon bat to pair with Jac Caglianone in right field. That now appears to be the case, as Thomas is particularly good against left-handed pitching, which gives the lefty Cags trouble.
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Additionally, Thomas has proven ability to play center field as well, giving the Royals the option to platoon him with current CF Kyle Isbel, who is also left-handed.
As mentioned above, 2025 wasn’t Thomas’ best year. He finished the season with a slashline of .160 AVG, four home runs, four stolen bases, .246 OBP, .272 SLG and .518 OPS in 125 at-bats. However, as also mentioned, Thomas has had much better years, like in 2023 when he hit well above .260 and hit nearly 30 homers.
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