Skubal, Bregman, and Reviewing Royals Lacking 1B Depth

In this episode of the Royals Rundown Podcast, hosts Jacob Milham and Jeremy “Hokius” Greco tackle a wide-ranging slate of MLB topics with a sharp focus on how league-wide decisions ripple down to the Kansas City Royals. The conversation begins with a deep dive into Tarik Skubal’s arbitration case, examining why the gap between player and team is so unusual and what it reveals about the current arbitration system. From there, Jacob and Jeremy analyze Alex Bregman’s contract, discussing what the deal says about shifting spending philosophies and how similar market dynamics could affect the Royals. The hosts also weigh in on Rob Manfred’s latest proposals, debating how structural changes at the league level may prioritize revenue over competitive balance. The second half of the episode zeroes in on the Royals themselves, with a comprehensive first base review across the major and minor league levels. From Vinnie Pasquantino’s importance to the franchise to the thin depth behind him, the hosts evaluate internal options such as Abraham Toro, Sam Ruta, Derlin Figueroa, Chris Brito, and others. They break down performance metrics, developmental timelines, and roster realities, ultimately asking whether the Royals can solve first base internally or if trades will be necessary. Blending labor economics, roster construction, and player development analysis, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at where the Royals stand, where they’re vulnerable, and what smart decision-making will be required heading into the season. Email Jacob directly at: [email protected] Need your Royals fix? Head to royalsreview.com for news, analysis, and to engage with Royals fans around the world! Follow us online: BlueSky– Jeremy Greco: @hokius.fromthehawkseye.com– Jacob Milham: @jacobmilhkc.bsky.social Twitter / X– Podcast: @RoyalRundownPod Kansas City Royals, Royals Rundown Podcast, Major League Baseball, MLB arbitration, Tarik Skubal, Alex Bregman contract, Rob Manfred, baseball contracts, first base prospects, Vinnie Pasquantino, Abraham Toro, Sam Ruta, Royals first base depth, minor league baseball, player evaluation, MLB prospects, baseball analysis, Royals Review, player development, MLB news Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.