The Kansas City Royals have made a significant roster move, designating veteran outfielder and first baseman Mark Canha for assignment on August 18, 2025. The decision follows Canha’s return from a rehabilitation assignment after spending a substantial portion of the season on the injured list due to left elbow epicondylitis. This move highlights the Royals' ongoing efforts to optimize their roster as they push for a postseason spot.
Canha’s 2025 campaign did not unfold as hoped. At 36 years old, the veteran arrived in Kansas City with expectations of providing steady offense and veteran leadership to a young lineup. Early in the season, Canha showed promise, delivering solid performances that gave fans hope of a resurgence. However, after a bright start, his production sharply declined. Through 46 games and 125 plate appearances, Canha slashed a disappointing .212/.272/.265, far below his career averages and the team's expectations. Additionally, injury issues plagued much of his season, limiting his ability to consistently contribute.
Before landing on the injured list on July 8, Canha had already dealt with a left adductor strain earlier in April, further compounding his limited playing time. His recent stint on the IL and subsequent rehab assignment only delayed the inevitable roster decision. Meanwhile, the Royals brought in new outfield additions like Mike Yastrzemski, Randal Grichuk, and Adam Frazier, all of whom have made more impactful contributions during Canha’s absence, crowding out his opportunities for playing time.
Royals manager Matt Quatraro addressed the tough decision to DFA Canha, noting, "We just don’t have a clear opportunity for him right now. This move is about letting him find a big-league job elsewhere." Quatraro also praised Canha’s professionalism and locker room presence throughout his time with the team, adding, "Mark was great from day one. He’s been a good teammate and provided veteran leadership."
The DFA puts Canha in waivers limbo. Given his underwhelming 2025 performance and $1.4 million salary, it appears unlikely that another team will claim him off waivers. Should he clear waivers, Canha has the service time to reject a minor league assignment and opt for free agency, potentially seeking opportunities with teams looking for experienced depth for the remainder of the season or as a late-season pickup.
Looking back at Canha’s career, he has been a stable major league presence since debuting in 2015. Known for his versatility across the outfield corners and first base, Canha has been a consistent and reliable hitter with a reputation for toughness—leading the majors in being hit by pitches multiple times. His offensive production from 2018 to 2024 typically hovered around league average or better, frequently posting wRC+ figures above 100, making his drop-off in 2025 more striking.
For the Royals, the move to DFA Canha reflects both a need to reallocate roster spots to younger or more productive players and a recognition that Canha’s best days are likely behind him. Kansas City currently sits 3.5 games out of a Wild Card spot in the American League, a thin margin that requires all active contributors to perform at a high level.
With Canha removed from the active roster, the Royals’ depth in the outfield now centers on newly acquired players and promising younger options. The moves made this season to bolster the bench and starting lineup suggest Kansas City is committed to pushing for a playoff berth, balancing veteran presence with emerging talent as the season enters its crucial final stretch.
Mark Canha’s designation for assignment signals an end to a challenging 2025 season for the seasoned veteran and a pivotal moment for the Royals’ roster construction. While Canha’s future remains uncertain, the move underscores Kansas City’s determination to maximize their chances in a highly competitive American League race.
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