3 Takeaways From Carter Jensen's Start to Season with Kansas City Royals

Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen technically made his MLB debut in 2025, but the 22-year-old's rookie season will be this year. He has had an up and down start to the 2026 campaign.

He was benched after sleeping through his alarm and showing up late before a game earlier in the season. He bounced back from the moment and had a hot streak after returning to the lineup. Overall, Jensen has certainly displayed signs of potential.

Here are three takeaways from Jensen's first 15 games of the 2026 season.

Jensen's Power is Real

Jensen is hitting just .238 with a .283 OBP as of this story's publication. However, he has recorded a slugging percentage of .548. His overall OPS is impressive as a result, as it currently sits at .831.

The catcher has hit four home runs to go along with one double. It should also be remembered that in his 20 games played in 2025, Jensen hit three home runs and recorded a .550 slugging percentage and .941 OPS.

Carter Jensen is still improving as an overall hitter, but his power is for real.

The Royals' Catching Situation Works

There were initially some questions as to how the Royals' catching situation would work with both Jensen and veteran Salvador Perez on the roster. Perez is a starter without question, while the Royals also want Jensen to play every day.

The two switching out between catcher and designated hitter with occasional days off has worked out, though. At 35 years old, Perez will only benefit from extra days off and designated hitter days at this point in his career.

Jensen is the catcher of the future. With both players currently on the roster, Kansas City has found a successful solution.

Jensen is a Future Star

As mentioned, Jensen is still developing as an overall hitter. Regardless, he is already emerging as one of the best offensive catchers in baseball.

Many catchers are known for their defensive prowess and ability to handle pitching staffs. There are not many catchers who are legitimate threats at the plate. Even with the low batting average and OBP, Jensen is already a threat from an offensive standpoint. His four home runs currently lead the Royals.

Carter Jensen is a future star. There is a reason he was a highly regarded prospect. It will be interesting to see how his career develops over the years, but the potential is exciting to say the least.