Royals Place Vinnie Pasquantino On IL With Hamate Fracture
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino underwent surgery for a right hamate fracture and is expected to be sidelined for approximately four to six weeks, placing him out of action at least through the All-Star break.
- Pasquantino sustained the injury during a game against the Astros, immediately leaving after a swing that caused him pain; the Royals have since recalled outfielder John Rave and adjusted their lineup accordingly.
- Pasquantino has struggled offensively in 2026, posting a .224/.309/.350 batting line and a 19% below-average wRC+, with declines in hard-hit rate and exit velocity contributing to his downturn.
- The Royals are likely to use Jac Caglianone at first base and Lane Thomas more in the outfield to compensate for Pasquantino’s absence, with Rave providing backup outfield depth during the recovery period.
- John Rave has shown strong performance at Triple-A this season with a 126 wRC+, though his major league experience has been limited and less productive; he is expected to be optioned back once Pasquantino returns.
