Royals' Jac Caglianone Continues Torrid August

Caglianone's scorching August is a major bounce-back from his lackluster July. In 23 games last month, he slashed .222/.237/.378 with three home runs and 10 RBI. Strikeouts were a glaring issue, as Caglianone recorded 19 of them compared to just two walks.

Although his 26 percent strikeout rate and 6.3 percent walk rate offer room for improvement, Caglianone's offensive metrics this season reflect tremendous potential.

He ranks in the 98th percentile in hard-hit percentage (55.4) and the 96th percentile in average exit velocity (93.3). Caglianone's +19 batting run value ranks within the top 25 among all qualified MLB hitters.

Simply put, Caglianone has been an anchor in the Royals' lineup at just 23-years-old. However, several of Kansas City's key offensive pieces have missed significant time this season.

Most notably, star shortstopBobby Witt Jr. missed 12 games from late July to mid-August because of lower-back tightness. Although the sample size was small, the Royals' 3.08 runs per game during Witt's absence reflected just how important he is to the team.

Elsewhere, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino and third baseman Maikel Garcia have missed much more time because of injuries.

Pasquantino has not played since July 28 due to right wrist soreness. He previously missed almost a month after suffering a right hamate fracture in mid-June. Meanwhile, Garcia has not played since June 22 because of a left hand muscle strain.

Fortunately, both players have begun rehab assignments: Pasquantino with Triple-A Omaha and Garcia for a second time with Double-A Northwest Arkansas after his first was shut down due to renewed pain in his left hand.

Nonetheless, when healthy, the Royals have an exciting young offense that can make some noise. If Caglianone continues to produce, the ceiling for Kansas City may only grow.

The Royals look to win the series against the Angels on Sunday at 4:07 p.m. ET.