Get ready, Royals fans, because the 2026 World Baseball Classic is about to shine a spotlight on some under-the-radar players who could be future stars in Kansas City. But here's where it gets exciting: while you’re cheering for your favorite major league stars representing their countries, there’s a whole other layer of talent you shouldn’t overlook—fringe roster candidates who might just surprise everyone and earn a spot on the Royals’ big league roster this season. And this is the part most people miss: these players could be the difference-makers in 2026.
As the baseball world converges on the United States, Puerto Rico, and Japan next month, 20 nations will battle it out to claim the title of the best on the planet. For Royals fans, the tournament isn’t just about watching established stars like those highlighted in this year’s Team USA decision (https://kingsofkauffman.com/royals-fans-have-one-more-reason-to-watch-2026-wbc-after-surprising-team-usa-decision-01kgsq6knyra). It’s also an opportunity to scout lesser-known players who could soon be making an impact in Kansas City. With rosters recently unveiled (https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/2026-world-baseball-classic-rosters-unveiled/), several fringe candidates—non-roster invitees and forgotten prospects on the 40-man roster—are set to take the global stage.
But here’s the controversial part: some of these players might not seem like obvious choices now, but their potential could be game-changing. Let’s dive into four names Royals fans should keep an eye on during the WBC—because you never know who might emerge as a key piece of the 2026 roster.
1. Abraham Toro - Infielder - Canada
Abraham Toro might not be a household name, but don’t let that fool you. While he’s not as flashy as the Royals’ current utility players like Nick Loftin or Tyler Tolbert, Toro’s versatility could make him a valuable asset. Sure, he’s manning third base for Team Canada and primarily played first and third for the Boston Red Sox last season—positions the Royals seem set on with Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia. But here’s the twist: Toro has experience at second base and even some corner outfield reps, making him a potential utility wildcard if he impresses in spring training and the WBC.
His bat hasn’t been stellar, with an 87 wRC+ in 2024 and a 77 wRC+ in 2025. But here’s where it gets interesting: Toro’s plate discipline is a bright spot. Last season, he struck out just 14.8% of the time and whiffed only 20.4%, pairing that with an 81.3% contact rate and 89.5% in-zone contact rate (https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/abraham-toro-647351?stats=statcast-r-hitting-mlb). That’s a player who can consistently put the ball in play—a valuable trait off the bench. In a game of margins, a positionally versatile player with reliable contact skills could be a quiet hero for the Royals.
2. Eric Cerantola - Relief Pitcher - Canada
Joining Toro on Team Canada is Eric Cerantola, a 25-year-old prospect still chasing his first major league call-up despite being on the Royals’ 40-man roster. With new bullpen additions like Matt Strahm, Nick Mears, and Alex Lange, Cerantola faces stiff competition. But here’s the counterpoint: his 2025 stats with the Storm Chasers—a 4.04 ERA and 1.31 WHIP—might not jump off the page, but dig deeper. His 11.57 K/9, .215 BAA, and 3.64 FIP suggest a pitcher capable of generating strikeouts and limiting damage, with a bit of bad luck mixed in.
And let’s not forget: just a year ago, Cerantola posted a sub-3.00 ERA across Double and Triple-A, striking out 31.5% of batters and holding them to a sub-.200 average. If he can channel that form in the WBC, don’t be surprised if he forces his way into the Royals’ bullpen conversation.
3. Jorge Alfaro - Catcher - Colombia
The Royals’ signing of Jorge Alfaro to a minor league deal earlier this year (https://kingsofkauffman.com/royals-should-n-t-end-pursuit-of-catching-depth-after-latest-minor-league-signing-01ke7xbpnzvq) might seem like a minor move, but it could pay dividends. Alongside Luke Maile, Alfaro is a strong candidate to join Salvador Perez and Carter Jensen as a third catcher on the Opening Day roster—if the Royals go that route.
Alfaro’s 2023 stint with the Washington Nationals was underwhelming (54 wRC+ in 14 games), but here’s the part most people miss: he was once a highly regarded prospect. From 2017-2019 with the Phillies and Marlins, he consistently posted 95 wRC+ or better and double-digit home runs. The third catcher role doesn’t demand much, but if Alfaro impresses in Surprise and with Team Colombia, he could provide just enough spark to earn a roster spot.
4. Eli Morgan - Relief Pitcher - Israel
Eli Morgan, representing Israel, is a name Royals fans should watch closely. After a dominant 2024 season with the Cleveland Guardians (1.93 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, .194 BAA), Morgan struggled with injuries in 2025 with the Cubs. But here’s the controversial take: despite last year’s setbacks, Morgan’s ability to induce weak contact (35.7% hard-hit rate) and deceive hitters (41.1% chase rate) (https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/eli-morgan-669212?stats=statcast-r-pitching-mlb) suggests he’s far from done.
With the Royals’ middle-relief spots still up for grabs, a strong WBC performance—where he’ll likely see high-leverage situations for Israel—could put Morgan back on the radar. Could we see him in Kansas City’s bullpen by Opening Day? It’s not as far-fetched as it sounds.
Final Thoughts: The 2026 World Baseball Classic isn’t just about the stars—it’s about uncovering hidden gems. These four players might not be household names yet, but their performances could shape the Royals’ season. Here’s the question for you: Which of these fringe candidates do you think has the best shot at making the Royals’ roster? And is there someone else you’re keeping an eye on? Let’s debate it in the comments!
