Emerging Star: Jac Caglianone's Rapid Rise
The Kansas City Royals have made waves in the fantasy baseball community by calling up their top prospect, Jac Caglianone, less than a year after drafting him as the No. 6 overall pick in 2024. Known for his exceptional power, Caglianone has quickly climbed through the minors, showcasing his potential as a game-changer for fantasy rosters. His promotion to the majors, following just 12 games in Triple-A, signals the Royals' confidence in his ability to bolster their struggling outfield.
Stats from his minor league stint paint a vivid picture of his dominance. Across 50 games between Double-A and Triple-A, Caglianone posted a .322 batting average, smashed 15 home runs, and drove in 56 RBIs, according to posts found on X. Fantasy analyst Tristan H. Cockcroft has highlighted him as a top waiver wire target, noting his 'potential slugger' status that could provide a much-needed boost for managers seeking power.
Why Caglianone is a Fantasy Game-Changer
Caglianone's raw power, often described as 'special' by industry insiders, makes him an immediate asset in fantasy leagues. Jeff Passan noted on X that the Royals' outfield, collectively hitting a dismal .226/.282/.325, desperately needs a spark, and Caglianone could be the solution. His minor league performance, including a .970 OPS and 167 wRC+ in Double-A over 33 games as shared by The Call Up podcast on X, suggests he’s ready to make an impact at the major league level.
Analysts like Andy Behrens have urged fantasy managers to act fast, calling Caglianone a 'must-add' in all leagues. His ability to hit for both average and power—evidenced by a .320/.392/.578 slash line in Double-A—positions him as a rare talent who can transform a roster. For teams languishing in home run or RBI categories, picking up Caglianone off the waiver wire could be a season-defining move.
What to Expect from Caglianone in Kansas City
As Caglianone steps into the Royals' lineup, expectations are high but tempered with caution. While his minor league numbers are impressive, the jump to the majors often comes with growing pains, especially for a player with less than a full season of professional experience. Fantasy managers should monitor his early at-bats closely, as initial struggles could present a buying opportunity if other owners drop him prematurely.
The Royals are banking on Caglianone’s 80-grade power, as noted by Will Dodge on X, to energize a lineup that has been largely lifeless this season. With the team at +150 odds to make the playoffs according to betting data shared on X by Covers, his call-up could be a pivotal moment in their push for postseason contention. For fantasy players, securing Caglianone now offers a chance to capitalize on what could be a breakout campaign from one of baseball’s brightest young stars.