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. Eli Morgan has some solid big league experience.
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?