Royals activate Maikel Garcia and Vinnie Pasquantino, designate Starling Marte for assignment

The Kansas City Royals announced the activation of third baseman Maikel Garcia and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino on August 17, 2026. Garcia returns from a muscle strain in his left hand that sidelined him since June 23, while Pasquantino has recovered from right wrist soreness that kept him out for over two weeks. Only two weeks remain before the playoffs, making these returns critical for the Royals as they attempt to close a 10.5-game gap for the third Wild Card spot. Starling Marte has been designated for assignment after a subpar season with a.242 batting average and 2 home runs across 59 games. Marte can be claimed by another team or will move to the Royals' minor league if unclaimed.

• 9:08 PMYahoo Sports — Royals activate 3B Maikel Garcia, 1B Vinnie Pasquantino, but DFA veteran OF Starling Marte