KC Royals announce starting pitcher for Friday’s Cactus League opener vs. Rangers
Published on Friday, 20 February 2026 at 9:36 am
Surprise, Ariz. – The Kansas City Royals have tabbed Stephen Kolek to take the mound when they open Cactus League play Friday against the Texas Rangers, the club confirmed Wednesday.
Kolek, who made his most recent appearance in a Major League uniform on Sept. 11, 2025, working against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field, will get the first spring start for Kansas City as manager and pitching staff begin sorting through rotation candidates ahead of the regular season.
The right-hander’s assignment sets the stage for the Royals’ exhibition slate and offers an early look at how the club plans to deploy its pitching depth this spring.
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