Royals Bolster Lineup with Trade for Isaac Collins and Nick Mears, Signaling Intent for 2026 Season
The Kansas City Royals have made a meaningful move to improve their offensive potential and bullpen depth, acquiring outfielder Isaac Collins and right-handed pitcher Nick Mears from the Milwaukee Brewers. The trade, finalized after securing Mears alongside Collins, addresses key areas the Royals identified for improvement this offseason. This acquisition signals a clear intent to lengthen the lineup and fortify the relief corps heading into the 2026 campaign.
A Deep Dive into the Acquisition of Isaac Collins
the Royals targeted Collins for his extraordinary plate discipline and contact skills. He consistently demonstrates an ability to put the ball in play, a valuable asset in today’s game.
* Collins ranked in the 98th percentile in MLB chase rate,according to Statcast.
* His 22.5% whiff rate highlights his ability to make consistent contact.
* A 12.9% walk rate (tied for 19th in baseball with at least 400 plate appearances) further underscores his strong on-base skills.
While some regression is possible in his second full Major League season, Collins’ core hitting abilities – notably his swing decisions and on-base percentage – are typically durable skills. You can expect these strengths to remain central to his game.
Adding Leverage to the Bullpen with Nick Mears
Alongside Collins,the Royals also secured right-handed reliever Nick mears. Kansas City has shown interest in Mears since his time with Colorado in 2023, recognizing his potential to contribute at the Major League level.
* Mears posted a solid 3.49 ERA across 56 2/3 innings in 2025.
* He exhibited excellent control, walking just 13 batters while striking out 46.
* His 33.5% chase rate (93rd percentile in MLB, per Statcast) demonstrates his ability to generate weak contact.
Mears primarily relies on a fastball-slider combination, occasionally mixing in a curveball.The Royals anticipate he’ll thrive in mid-to-high leverage situations, providing crucial support ahead of setup man Lucas Erceg and closer Carlos Estévez. This addition directly strengthens your bullpen’s ability to close out games.
Contractual Status & Future outlook
The Royals have secured Collins under club control through the 2031 season, as he isn’t eligible for salary arbitration until 2028. Mears, however, is arbitration-eligible this year and will become a free agent after the 2027 season. This provides the Royals with both long-term stability and short-term flexibility.
The Cost of Improvement: Saying Goodbye to gabe zerpa
To complete the trade, the Royals parted ways with left-handed reliever Gabe Zerpa. this wasn’t an easy decision, especially considering the team’s need for left-handed relief depth. Zerpa, a Royals’ organization member since 2016, transitioned to a bullpen role in 2024 and became a reliable arm over the past two seasons.
He posted a 4.18 ERA in a career-high 64 2/3 innings in 2025. While capable of dominance with a 96.6 mph sinker, consistency with his breaking ball proved elusive at times.
Beyond Collins and Mears: A Continued Pursuit of Offense
The acquisition of Collins complements the recent signing of free-agent outfielder Lane Thomas (pending a physical). These moves demonstrate the Royals’ commitment to improving their offensive output and lengthening the lineup. However,sources indicate that kansas City isn’t finished adding bats this winter. You can anticipate further moves as the team continues to refine its roster for the 2026 season.
This trade represents a strategic investment in both the present and future of the Kansas City Royals. By adding proven talent like Collins and Mears, while carefully managing their contractual situations, the Royals are positioning themselves for sustained success.
