Overview
- The deal can escalate to $85.3 million if the 2031 option is exercised and Garcia meets triggers that include multiple top-10 MVP finishes and seasons of at least 525 plate appearances.
- Kansas City’s option for 2031 is $21 million with a $3.2 million buyout, and the contract includes a $1 million signing bonus paid in two installments.
- Salary terms are $4 million in the first season, then $7 million, $10.1 million, $13.1 million, and $19.1 million, with potential $5 million escalators in both 2030 and 2031.
- The agreement follows Garcia’s 2025 breakout featuring a .286/.351/.449 line, 16 home runs, 23 steals, an All-Star nod, a Gold Glove at third base, and an AL-best 18 Outs Above Average at the position.
- Garcia said he sought security to focus on baseball and help bring a championship to Kansas City, aligning with the Royals’ push to retain a homegrown core alongside stars such as Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez.