Royals Rookie’s Tardy Arrival Leads to Lineup Change in Series Finale The Kansas City Royals faced a setback in their opening series against the Minnesota Twins on Thursday, as rookie catcher Carter Jensen was scratched from the starting lineup due to an oversleeping incident. The decision, made just before the first pitch of the game, forced veteran catcher Salvador Perez to return to the position less than 15 hours after he had played a nine-inning game the previous night. The game, which lasted 3 hours and 36 minutes, ended in a 5-1 loss for the Royals, dropping their season record to 3-3. Jensen, who is in his sixth game of his first full season with the Royals, was expected to bat fifth and serve as the starting catcher. However, manager Matt Quatraro revealed that the rookie had overslept and failed to arrive on time, prompting the team to remove him from the lineup. “Carter had an oversight,” Quatraro said after the game. “He overslept and wasn’t here on time, and we made the decision to scratch him from the lineup.” The absence of Jensen created a logistical challenge for the Royals. Perez, who had caught the entire game the night before, was pinch-run for by utility man Tyler Tolbert in the bottom of the eighth inning after reaching base on a fielder’s choice. This allowed Jensen to step in defensively for the ninth inning, though the decision to move Perez back to catcher was seen as a necessary adjustment given the team’s need for rest. Quatraro expressed disappointment over the situation but emphasized that it was an isolated incident. “He feels terrible,” the manager said, referring to Jensen. “And he’s accountable to it and it’s not something that has been a pattern or any of that kind of stuff. Nobody feels worse than he does, and I think he’ll admit to that.#kansas_city_royals #salvador_perez #carter_jensen #minnesota_twins #matt_quatraro
Kansas City Royals Set 2026 Opening Day Roster The Kansas City Royals have finalized their 26-player opening day roster for the 2026 Major League Baseball season. The team announced the list on Wednesday, confirming that most of the 2025 squad will return, with several new additions to bolster the roster. Key players such as shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., catcher/first baseman/DH Salvador Perez, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, and third baseman Maikel Garcia are expected to lead the offense. The roster also includes veteran signings like Starling Marte and Nick Mears, as well as the retention of southpaw pitcher Bailey Falter in a new role. The starting rotation will be anchored by All-Star pitchers Cole Ragans, Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Kris Bubic. The Royals aimed to elevate their overall depth by adding experienced players to complement their young stars. Bench spots were filled by utilityman Nick Loftin and speedster Tyler Tolbert, both of whom will play significant roles. Loftin, who posted a .903 OPS in spring training, offers versatility and a right-handed bat, while Tolbert, a 2025 rookie with 21 stolen bases, will provide late-inning speed and flexibility in both outfield and infield positions. Injury concerns remain for second baseman Michael Massey, who was placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained left calf. The designation is retroactive to March 22, meaning he could miss several games before a potential return. Massey has remained in Surprise, Arizona, to participate in minor-league games and rehab. The Royals will rely on Loftin, outfielders Starling Marte and Lane Thomas, and reserves to cover his absence until his return.#bobby_witt_jr #vinnie_pasquantino #maikel_garcia #kansas_city_royals #salvador_perez
