Are the Kansas City Royals sitting on the most dominant infield in Major League Baseball? It’s a question that’s sparking debates across the league, and for good reason. This offseason, the Royals have been under the spotlight, with their star-studded infield—featuring Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia, and Vinnie Pasquantino—earning league-wide recognition. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can they truly claim the title of the best infield in the MLB? Let’s dive into the details and explore the biggest questions surrounding this powerhouse lineup.
Each of these infielders, along with catcher Salvador Perez, was named a Silver Slugger finalist, a testament to their offensive prowess. Witt and Garcia also snagged Gold Gloves for their stellar defense in 2025. But is hardware enough to crown them the best? The Royals certainly think so, as they’ve invested heavily in this unit, rewarding them with lucrative contracts. Garcia inked a five-year extension after posting career highs with 16 home runs and 74 RBIs in 160 games. Pasquantino, the team’s top run-producer with 32 homers and 113 RBIs, secured a two-year deal worth up to $15.7 million with incentives. Perez, the lone remaining member of the 2015 World Series team, also earned a two-year extension.
Opening Day will showcase Witt at shortstop—voted the best in the majors by MLB.com—Garcia at third base, and Pasquantino at first. Perez will return behind the plate, solidifying a lineup that looks unstoppable on paper. But here’s the part most people miss: Second base remains a question mark. Jonathan India, a tenured veteran, is expected to share duties with Michael Massey, but his inconsistent 2025 season raises doubts. India admitted to feeling uncomfortable in his new environment, battling injuries, and struggling to adjust to Kauffman Stadium. The Royals considered non-tendering him but ultimately decided to give him another chance in 2026. Will he rebound, or will this position become their Achilles’ heel?
India’s 2025 campaign was a far cry from his National League Rookie of the Year days, hitting just .233 with nine home runs and 45 RBIs. He’s vowed to improve, but can he regain his form? Royals GM J.J. Picollo believes India needs to rediscover his emotional spark, something that was missing last season. Is this a recipe for redemption, or a risky gamble?
Meanwhile, Pasquantino is poised for another breakout year. After avoiding arbitration with his new contract, he’s declared himself in the best shape of his life. With the Royals moving in their outfield fences and adding offensive firepower like Isaac Collins and Lane Thomas, Pasquantino could see even more opportunities to drive in runs. But can he top his 2025 campaign, or is he due for a regression?
And then there’s rookie catcher Carter Jensen, a Kansas City native who impressed in September with a .300 average and three home runs in 20 games. At just 22, he’s the future behind the plate, but how quickly can he adjust to a full 162-game season? Will he be the next big thing, or will growing pains slow his rise?
Bold Prediction: Vinnie Pasquantino leads the American League in RBIs. With the new outfield dimensions and a deeper lineup, he could surpass Seattle’s Cal Raleigh, who led the league with 125 RBIs last season. But is this a realistic expectation, or just wishful thinking?
As spring training approaches, the Royals’ infield depth looks formidable. Yet, questions linger. Can India return to form? Will Pasquantino build on his success? How soon will Jensen make his mark? And most importantly, do they have what it takes to be crowned the best infield in the MLB?
What do you think? Are the Royals’ infielders the best in the league, or is there room for debate? Let us know in the comments below!
