The Royals received a big injury update.
The Kansas City Royals recently received an important injury update. Outfielder Dairon Blanco was recently hit in the helmet by a pitch. According to MLB.com, Blanco avoided a concussion. However, the Royals will still obviously proceed with caution. Blanco will be limited to light activity over the next few days, and the team will closely monitor his status.
Blanco was able to avoid a concussion, but it remains to be seen when he will return to the field. Kansas City will provide updates as they are made available.
What Dairon Blanco Brings to the Royals
Blanco, 32, made his big league debut in 2022. In total, he has spent parts of four seasons in MLB with the Royals.
Blanco received most of his playing time in 2023 and 2024, appearing in 69 games during the '23 campaign and 88 contests during the '24 season. He hit exactly .258 in each year. In 2023, Blanco recorded a respectable .775 OPS. Overall, he stole 55 total bases between the two years.
In 2025, Blanco appeared in only nine MLB games with the Royals. In 77 games at Triple-A, the outfielder recorded a .253/.332/.405 slash line. He continued to display his impressive stolen base prowess, as Blanco swiped 32 bags. Additionally, Blanco hit eight home runs and 13 doubles.
He is a player who could impact Kansas City in 2026 if given an opportunity.
Royals' Outfield Outlook for 2026 MLB Season
Will Blanco have an opportunity to compete for a big league roster spot in spring training once he returns from injury?
The Royals' outfield is currently set to include Jac Caglianone, Isaac Collins and Kyle Isbel. Offseason addition Lane Thomas will also make an impact. Players such as Michael Massey and Nick loftin can help in the outfield as well.
Blanco could possibly earn an MLB role if he plays well once he returns from injury, but it seems rather unlikely. With that being said, he is a player who may receive an opportunity at some point during the 2026 campaign.
Dairon Blanco is still capable of helping an MLB ball club. For now, he is focused on getting healthy following his injury scare. As mentioned, the Royals will continue to provide updates on his injury status.
Kansas City's next spring training game is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon against the Cincinnati Reds, with first pitch scheduled for 3:05 PM EST.