**KANSAS CITY** — Jac Caglianone, the Royals’ first-round Draft pick, will make his professional debut on Tuesday for High-A Quad Cities.
Selected No. 6 overall in last month’s MLB Draft, Caglianone officially signed with the Royals on July 24 and quickly began his career in Arizona. Less than two weeks later, he is set to start in High-A, bypassing Single-A Columbia.
His performance during at-bats, approach, and overall demeanor led to this decision.
“He was able to play in games, live BPs, and had a really good week,” said Mitch Maier, director of player development. “Given what he showed in college and this past week, we believe he’s ready to start his professional career in Quad Cities.
“We’re excited to integrate him with the group and see what he can bring to the table.”
Caglianone’s experience at Florida and in the Southeastern Conference positions him well to advance rapidly through the Royals’ system. His debut with Quad Cities is the first step in this journey. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound slugger boasts 70-grade power and hit 68 home runs over his last two seasons with the Gators. In his junior year of 2024, he smashed 35 home runs, including a stretch of homering in nine consecutive games from April 6-19, which tied the NCAA record and surpassed the Major League record of eight. His .419 average ranked third in Division I, and his .544 on-base percentage was bolstered by a walk total of 58, more than double his strikeout total of 26.
Caglianone’s impressive power is well-known and likely to be his path to the Major Leagues. His performance and personal qualities convinced the Royals’ player development staff that he is ready for affiliate ball.
“When you start to meet someone and observe their work ethic and approach, you begin to see more than just their performance statistics,” said Maier. “Beyond the scouting reports and college highlights, seeing him daily and witnessing his dedication and skills gives us a deeper appreciation for his potential. He was exceptionally impressive to watch.
“Getting to know him personally and seeing his daily work has strengthened our confidence in his readiness. We’re eager to see him in Quad Cities and start his professional career.”
Despite being drafted as a two-way player, the Royals have not ruled out Caglianone’s pitching career entirely. However, the 21-year-old is focusing on hitting for the remainder of this season as he acclimates to professional baseball. The next five weeks will mark his first experience playing six days a week.
Caglianone’s primary position will be first base, although he may also see some time as the designated hitter.
The Royals signed 19 of their 20 Draft picks from last month, and several will begin their professional careers at lower-level affiliates over the coming month. Joining Caglianone in Quad Cities this week is right-handed pitcher Andrew Morones, the Royals’ 16th-round pick from Cal State Fullerton. Additionally, thirteenth-rounder Sam Kulasingham, an infielder from the Air Force Academy, and 11th-rounder Zach Cawyer, a right-handed pitcher from TCU, are headed to Single-A Columbia this week.