The Kansas City Royals just dropped their 2026 spring training schedule, and honestly, it’s looking packed. This year’s slate mixes classic Cactus League games with a splash of international action, all set in sunny Surprise, Arizona. There are 32 games in 33 days—no shortage of baseball for fans itching for Opening Day. The Royals will face some of MLB’s toughest teams and even throw in a few special exhibitions. There’s a buzz about games against the defending champion Dodgers and, get this, a rare matchup with Team Cuba. Feels like this spring could end up as one of the most memorable in Royals history.
Royals Spring Training Opens in Surprise, Arizona
Surprise, Arizona has been the Royals’ go-to spot for spring training for a long time. They’ll share Surprise Stadium with the Texas Rangers again this year. Kicking things off on February 20, Kansas City takes the field as the “road” team against their stadium buddies.
A Diverse Set of Opponents Awaits
This year’s schedule throws Kansas City up against a wide range of Major League clubs. Fans will get a real taste of the competition they’ll see once the season starts. Highlight games include showdowns with the Padres, Brewers, and Angels. But it’s the two dates with the reigning World Series champion Dodgers—March 6 and March 17—that really stand out.
International Flavor: Team Cuba Exhibition Match
Here’s something you don’t see every spring: the Royals will face Team Cuba in an exhibition on March 3. It’s just days before the 2026 World Baseball Classic kicks off. If you’ve never seen international baseball up close, this is your shot.
A Showcase of Baseball’s Global Reach
Games like this connect the Royals to the global baseball scene. Younger players get a shot at facing unique styles, which is pretty invaluable. Coaches can watch how the roster handles these new challenges, and, honestly, it’s a cool way to build some international goodwill.
Split-Squad Action and ‘Spring Breakout’ Feature Game
To get everyone on the field, the Royals scheduled two split-squad days—March 11 and March 19. These games let more players see action. Coaches get a better look at prospects and those fighting for a roster spot, all in live-game situations.
Highlighting Young Talent
The ‘spring breakout’ game on March 20 should be a highlight. It’s a chance to check out the Royals’ next wave of talent. Fans can catch a glimpse of the future, and top prospects get to show their stuff before the season really gets rolling.
Closing Out Cactus League Competition
The Royals will finish up Cactus League play on March 21, taking on the Colorado Rockies. But wait, there’s more—they’ll head to Arlington for two more exhibitions against the Rangers at Globe Life Field on March 23 and 24.
Preparing for the Regular Season
Those late-March games in Texas give the Royals one last tune-up. Playing in a big league stadium against a familiar team lets the coaches finalize the Opening Day roster and make any last tweaks.
Key Dates Royals Fans Need to Remember
Spring training rolls right into the regular season, which starts March 26 in Atlanta. Then, just a few days later, Kansas City hosts their home opener against the Twins at Kauffman Stadium.
- February 20: Spring training opener vs. Texas Rangers
- March 3: Exhibition game vs. Team Cuba
- March 6 & 17: Games vs. defending champion Dodgers
- March 11 & 19: Split-squad dates
- March 20: Spring breakout game
- March 21: Final Cactus League game vs. Colorado Rockies
- March 23-24: Exhibition games at Globe Life Field
- March 26: Regular season opener in Atlanta
- March 30: Home opener at Kauffman Stadium
A Spring Full of Storylines
The expanded 2026 schedule gives Kansas City fans a wealth of early-season drama. There are high-profile clashes and even international exhibitions on the horizon.
For a team gearing up for a tough regular season, March feels like both a proving ground and a celebration of baseball’s reach. It’s a lot to take in, honestly—almost too much, but in the best way.
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