The Kansas City Royals were one of the biggest movers in the 2026 MLB Draft Lottery, landing the No. 6 overall pick Tuesday during the Winter Meetings in Orlando.

Kansas City entered the lottery with the 13th-best odds and a less than one percent chance to earn the top selection. Without a lottery spot, the Royals would have picked 16th, making the jump to sixth a significant gain.

General manager J.J. Picollo said the result was a welcome change after previous years in which the Royals slid down the draft order despite strong odds. The higher pick gives the organization more options and financial flexibility during the draft.

The Royals have selected sixth overall twice before, including Zack Greinke in 2002 and Jac Caglianone in 2024. In addition to the No. 6 pick, Kansas City will also hold the Competitive Balance A pick at No. 30.

The 2026 MLB Draft will be held July 12 in Philadelphia.