Vanderbilt baseball continues to showcase its prowess in producing MLB talent, with 11 former players making the cut for the 2025 opening day rosters, tying for first among SEC schools. Notable names include veteran Sonny Gray, who will lead the St. Louis Cardinals, and rising stars Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter, both key members of the Texas Rangers' rotation.

Rocker, the 10th overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, bounced back from Tommy John surgery to post a solid 3.86 ERA in three starts during his debut season in 2024. Leiter, selected second overall the same year, aligns with Rocker as the duo aims to solidify their roles. The exceptional performance of Vanderbilt alums like Bryan Reynolds and Dansby Swanson also highlights the Commodores' impact in the league, reinforcing their status as a powerhouse in collegiate baseball.

The Kansas City Royals have successfully avoided arbitration with pitcher Kyle Wright, signing him to a $1.8 million contract for the 2025 season. This deal mirrors his salary from the previous season, during which he was sidelined due to right shoulder surgery.

Wright, who missed all of 2024, aims to return for Opening Day and could be a key addition to the Royals' starting rotation. His past performance includes leading the league with 21 wins in 2022 and contributing to the Atlanta Braves' World Series victory in 2021.

The Royals, who finished second in the American League Central, are looking to strengthen their roster for a competitive 2025 season.

Kyle Wright has signed a one-year contract worth $1.8 million with the Kansas City Royals, avoiding salary arbitration. This deal maintains his previous salary as he continues to recover from shoulder surgery.

Despite not pitching in 2024, the Royals are optimistic about his potential for the 2025 rotation. The team, which boasted a strong pitching lineup last season, will see competition for spots following recent trades and player agreements.