6 Royals prospects who could be protected no matter what happens with Rule 5 Draft

The Kansas City Royals are in for a busy offseason. A weak American League Central in 2026 means the door is still wide open for them to make a comeback in 2027. To do that, however, they're going to avoid stagnation this offseason.

Most fans have already turned their focus to the trade market and free agency ahead of the likely lockout coming this winter. But before a lockout can happen, each franchise will need to protect its players from the Rule 5 Draft.

Even though the draft's future itself is still up in the air, with a potential flurry of changes happening to the sport this offseason, the protection date falls before a lockout would be implemented. The Royals will need to protect their players in case it still exists after the lockout.

6 Royals prospects who could be protected no matter what happens with Rule 5 Draft

Carson Roccaforte, Royals outfielder

Carson Roccaforte had a breakout season in 2026. He rocketed 30 home runs and another 24 extra-base hits in Double-A before being called up to Triple-A . In 128 games, he hit .256 with an OPS in the mid-800s. While he only has 28 games of Triple-A experience under his belt, a team in a rebuild would certainly take the risk of trying him in the outfield next season. Roccaforte needs to be protected.

Gavin Cross, Royals outfielder

The 9th overall pick in the 2022 draft has not lived up to his pedigree, but Gavin Cross put together a quality season in 2026. While his strikeout and walk rates have only gotten worse, he was still able to hit .247 with 42 extra-base hits this season, and swiped 23 bags. If for no other reason, the Royals should protect him so as not to completely waste a first-round pick only five years ago.

Brett Squires, Royals first baseman

Kansas City may not need any help at first base next season, but Brett Squires was the team's Minor League Player of the Year. He'll be 27 years old and coming off a Triple-A season where he had an .892 OPS, 51 extra-base hits, and 15 stolen bases.

Lucas Braun, Royals pitcher

The Royals acquired Lucas Braun at the trade deadline this past season in the deal that sent Lane Thomas and Bailey Falter to the Atlanta Braves. Even though he struggled following the trade, the Royals need starting pitching depth, and Braun will provide just that.

Jacob Berry, Royals infielder/ outfielder

Much like Braun, the Royals acquired Jacob Berry late in the season, meaning they're likely to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. In 29 games after the trade, the 25-year-old had eight home runs and seven doubles. That level of play deserves a spot on the 40-man roster, at least to begin the season.

Peyton Wilson, Royals infielder

The Royals may not need much more help on the infield, but Peyton Wilson played well enough last season to earn protection from the Rule 5 Draft this winter. The soon-to-be 27-year-old hit .276 last season and had 29 doubles with 17 stolen bases.

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