The Royals drafted Kameron Misner almost a decade ago. Will he make the opening day roster?
Misner, a Poplar Bluff native, couldn't wait to get home. The idea of playing close to family was something he looked forward to doing again.
"It means everything," Misner said. "This is ultimately where I want to be."
Misner has a little history with the Kansas City Royals. The Royals selected him in the 33rd round of the 2016 MLB Draft. However, he decided to go to school — attending the University of Missouri on a baseball scholarship.
His decision was worth it. Misner was a 2017 Freshman All-American and set career marks during his junior season. It was enough for him to be selected by the Miami Marlins in the first round of the 2019 draft.
Seven years later, Misner hasn’t regretted his choice. He made his MLB debut with the Tampa Bay Rays. And this spring, he has a hometown opportunity with the Royals.
In what he calls a full-circle moment.
"I’m familiar with everything," Misner said. "You know, I played against a lot of these guys and it’s an easy clubhouse to come into. All the guys are good and nice. I feel right at home."
Misner was acquired in an offseason trade. The Royals added him to their 40-man roster for outfield depth. He will get a chance to compete for a bench spot this spring as the club looks to build out the 26-man roster.
At first glance, Misner has all the physical tools. He stands 6-foot-4 and has legitimate hitting ability from the left side of the plate. He has looked solid in Royals camp with his versatility and offensive potential.
Last season, Misner appeared in 71 games with the Rays. He hit .213 with five homers and 22 RBIs.
The Royals will utilize him in all three outfield spots. His calling cards are playing hard and bringing a defensive intensity.
"You know, I take a lot of pride in defense," Misner said. "I think if you are a bad defender, you are usually a pretty selfish teammate. So I take a lot of pride in defense. And, you know, it’s not about you, it’s about the team. It starts with the defense."
Misner will get additional reps this spring. He will benefit from multiple Royals participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. There will be chances for him to impress the coaching staff with his defensive versatility and burgeoning offense.
So far, Misner has appeared in seven games this spring. He is among several left-handed hitters looking to earn a roster spot. The group includes Michael Massey, John Rave and Josh Rojas.
The Royals also have to consider their outfield mix. The club expects to have Isaac Collins in left field, Kyle Isbel in center and Jac Caglianone in right. Lane Thomas and Starling Marte — who recently signed this week — will be available off the bench.
Misner has minor-league options remaining. There is a chance he starts in Triple-A Omaha if he doesn’t make the opening day roster.
"You know, I’m just here to play and do anything the team needs," Misner said. "So it’s kind of my mindset."
The Royals are known to use their entire roster. So there’s a good chance Misner will play at Kauffman Stadium at some point during the 2026 campaign.
He is grateful for the possibility.
"Here we are, how many years later, and I’m in the locker room," Misner said. "I’m very happy about it."
