Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Royals and Rangers Kick Off Spring Training 2026

2/20/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Kansas City Royals will open spring training against the Texas Rangers on February 20, 2026, marking the start of both teams' preparations.
The Royals finished 2025 at 82-80 and the Rangers at 81-81, a parity that underpins their shared optimism.
Royals leaders Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez headline, while Corey Seager and Wyatt Langford anchor the Rangers as Nimmo's ramp-up is managed.

History

Historical Context

In 1961, Major League Baseball expanded by adding the New York Mets and Houston Colt .45s, marking the beginning of a new era. This expansion was a response to the threat of the Continental League and increased MLB's franchises to 18. The competitive balance established then continues to influence team dynamics, as seen with the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers finishing 2025 with similar records.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Kansas City Royals will open spring training against the Texas Rangers on February 20, 2026, marking the start of both teams' preparations.
The Royals finished 2025 at 82-80 and the Rangers at 81-81, a parity that underpins their shared optimism.
Royals leaders Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez headline, while Corey Seager and Wyatt Langford anchor the Rangers as Nimmo's ramp-up is managed.

1 / 2