As the MLB All-Star Game and Draft approach alongside the looming July 31 trade deadline, Kansas City Royals fans have plenty to track, especially with the team potentially positioned as both buyers and sellers. Amid these high-profile concerns, several other significant developments within the Royals organization have emerged, offering a clearer view of the club’s current state.
Michael Massey Experiences Pause in Rehab Assignment After Injury and Illness
Kansas City Royals infielder and outfielder Michael Massey, who suffered an ankle injury in early June, had been progressing well during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha. Over 15 plate appearances in five games, Massey delivered an impressive line with a .417 batting average, a .533 on-base percentage, and a .667 slugging percentage, backed by a 216 weighted runs created plus (wRC+).
However, before the Royals’ series finale against the Seattle Mariners, the team announced that Massey was being pulled from his rehab assignment for reassessment. Royals broadcaster Joel Goldberg clarified that while the initial report sounded concerning, the situation was more a temporary pause than a serious setback. Massey reportedly sustained a hand injury two days prior and also battled an illness, compounding the ankle issues he was already managing.
“Just talked with Head Trainer Kyle Turner. Massey was hit in the hand two days ago and also had an illness today. Add in the ankle and Turner said this not a setback but just a pause. Matt Quatraro says Massey likely resumes the rehab assignment early next week” —Joel Goldberg, Royals Broadcaster
Manager Matt Quatraro indicated Massey is expected to restart his rehab stint shortly, though the exact timeline for his return to the Kansas City roster remains uncertain.
Nicky Lopez Signs Minor League Contract with New York Yankees
Shortstop Nicky Lopez has added another chapter to his 2025 journey by signing a minor league deal with the New York Yankees this past Thursday. This move follows Lopez opting out of his contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks earlier that week, marking his fourth organizational affiliation this season after playing with the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels, and Arizona Diamondbacks.
The 2025 season has been a challenging one for the defensive-minded Lopez, who has struggled offensively at the major league level. In 28 MLB plate appearances between Chicago and Los Angeles, he posted a mere .042 batting average and a .220 on-base plus slugging (OPS), indicating difficulties in maintaining consistent production.
Lopez previously spent parts of five seasons with the Royals from 2019 through 2023, compiling a respectable .248 batting average and a .628 OPS over 1,829 plate appearances. His signing with the Yankees presents another opportunity to reestablish himself and potentially earn playing time at the major league level.
Cavan Biggio Earns Triple-A Hitter of the Month for June After Royals Demotion
After struggling early in the major leagues with Kansas City, utility player Cavan Biggio was sent down to Triple-A at the end of May, where his performance has seen a notable turnaround. His slump, characterized by a .174 batting average, .296 on-base percentage, and .246 slugging percentage, has given way to a strong showing in the minors.
In June with the Omaha Storm Chasers, Biggio excelled by batting .301 with a .388 on-base percentage and a .493 slugging percentage, driving in 15 runs across 21 games. This improvement earned him the Royals’ Triple-A Hitter of the Month award, a recognition that highlights his effort to force a return to the major leagues.
“July is here, so it’s time to recognize our pitchers and players of the month for June at all seven affiliates! We begin today with Jirsch’s dudes at Triple-A Omaha. #RaisingRoyals” —Raising Royals, Kansas City Royals’ Minor League Twitter
While it remains unclear if Biggio will receive another chance with the Royals this season, his commitment in the minors underscores his determination to rejoin the team at the major league level.
Implications for Royals’ Roster and Organizational Outlook
The developments involving Michael Massey’s rehab pause, Nicky Lopez signing away from the Royals with the Yankees, and Cavan Biggio’s resurgence in Triple-A come at a pivotal time for the Kansas City organization. Massey’s health remains a variable as the team approaches the trade deadline, potentially affecting infield depth and outfield versatility.
Lopez’s departure signals ongoing roster adjustments as the Royals navigate their buyer-seller dynamics, with the defensive specialist’s experience now strengthening the Yankees’ minor league system. Meanwhile, Biggio’s improved form at Triple-A offers a hopeful avenue for Kansas City to bolster their lineup if he can translate his performance back to the majors.
As the Royals balance injuries, trades, and minor league success stories, these shifts will likely influence roster decisions in the coming weeks, especially with key dates like the All-Star break and trade deadline fast approaching. Fans and management alike will be watching closely to see how these factors play into the Royals’ strategy for the remainder of the season.