These players have impressed so far this spring.
The Kansas City Royals have high expectations for the 2026 MLB season. Stars such as Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez and Cole Ragans will lead the team throughout the '26 campaign. However, the Royals will obviously benefit if other players step up. Two players who have not received much attention are quietly making an impact so far at spring training.
Infielders Josh Rojas and Nick Loftin have played well this spring. Are they going to make an impact during the 2026 season?
Josh Rojas
Rojas, 31, is a veteran who made his MLB debut with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2019. He spent 2025 with the Chicago White Sox. While he struggled during the '25 season, Rojas has helped the teams he's played on in the past.
He is also versatile. Rojas can play third base, second base and the outfield.
So far during spring training, the veteran is hitting .375/.412/.938 to go along with a 1.350 OPS, two home runs, eight RBI and three doubles.
It is only spring training, but Rojas has impressed through seven games played nonetheless. He is making a strong argument for being included on the team's Opening Day roster.
Nick Loftin
Loftin, a 27-year-old, is also a versatile player who can handle duties at multiple infield and outfield positions. He made his big league debut in 2023 and has appeared in a total of 142 games at the MLB level heading into 2026.
Loftin has yet to truly find success in MLB, but he could help a Royals' outfield that features some uncertainty. His all-around versatility will help his chances of ending up in Kansas City on Opening Day. Loftin's spring training performance will play a role as well.
The 27-year-old has played in seven spring games so far and is slashing .294/.368/.588. He has also hit one home run and two doubles to go along with six RBI and a stolen base.
There is a chance that Rojas and Loftin won't end up making the MLB roster. Kansas City's depth is in a respectable spot following the Starling Marte and Lane Thomas additions. If Rojas and Loftin continue to play at a high level throughout the spring, however, then the Royals will at least have to consider the idea of both players landing on the 2026 Opening Day roster.
Josh Rojas and Nick Loftin will look to continue their impressive spring training performances.