Jac Caglianone reflected on his time at the World Baseball Classic.
Kansas City Royals up and coming star Jac Caglianone is likely going to play a significant role with the ball club for years to come. However, he also could help Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic in the future tournaments. The 23-year-old joined his Royals teammate Vinnie Pasquantino with Team Italy in the 2026 WBC, and the young outfielder contributed in a pivotal manner.
The Italy team was not expected to make too much noise in the tournament. Yet, they upset Team USA in a game in the first round and ended up reaching the WBC semifinals. Caglianone slashed .286/.500/.571 across five games played. He hit a home run and recorded four RBIs as well.
Caglianone recently addressed his time in the World Baseball Classic with Team Italy, via MLB.com.
"That was the most fun I've ever had playing baseball," Caglianone said.
He also explained that it felt like postseason baseball. The experience has seemingly given him even more motivation to help lead the Royals to the playoffs.
Jac Caglianone's High Ceiling
Caglianone made his MLB debut during the 2025 season. He only appeared in 62 games, and Caglianone endured ups and downs.
He certainly displayed his power. The outfielder crushed seven home runs and six doubles. He also had 18 RBIs and 18 walks. However, he also hit only .157. It seems like almost all of his hits went for extra bases.
So far in 2026, Caglianone is hitting .250/.325/.306 across 11 games played. He has recorded two doubles and no home runs, though.
The power will surely return at some point. The Royals believe Caglianone features the talent and potential to become a star at the MLB level. Fans are certainly excited about Caglianone's outlook.
Royals' Overall 2026 Performance
Overall, Kansas City holds a 5-7 record this year. They have endured an up and down all-around campaign so far. The Royals most recently dropped two out of three games to the Cleveland Guardians in a three-game series.
Kansas City's outlook remains intriguing, however. This is a ball club that could realistically make some noise this season. Many analysts and experts who cover the league believe the Royals can compete for a division title in the American League Central. If Jac Caglianone meets his lofty expectations, the team will certainly receive a crucial boost.
The Royals will attempt to bounce back in their upcoming series against the Chicago White Sox in Kansas City.