KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - MAY 19: Vinnie Pasquantino #9 of the Kansas City Royals hits a three-run triple in the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Kauffman Stadium on May 19, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)
The Kansas City Royals may have to start the season without Vinnie Pasquantino, as the first baseman suffered a right hamstring strain in the team’s final Cactus League game against the Texas Rangers on March 22.
The injury happened in the fifth inning as Pasquantino was running out a double-play grounder. He pulled up as he crossed first base, immediately favoring his right leg.
Pasquantino seemed hopeful, saying, “I feel fine… my gut tells me it’s not going to affect anything. But my gut is not the medical staff.”
If Pasquantino misses significant time, it’s a tough blow for the Royals, as he was expected to be a key bat in their lineup after hitting .262 with 19 home runs and 97 RBIs in 2024.
From a fantasy baseball perspective, his value takes a hit if he lands on the injured list. Hamstring injuries can linger, especially for hitters who rely on lower-body strength. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on updates, as his Opening Day status remains uncertain.
