Imagine being drafted by your hometown team, only to turn them down for college. Years later, you’re back, knocking on the door of that very same team, hoping to finally wear their jersey. That’s Kameron Misner’s story—a tale of patience, perseverance, and a full-circle journey back to where it all began.
Misner, a Poplar Bluff native, has always dreamed of playing close to family. When the Kansas City Royals drafted him in the 33rd round of the 2016 MLB Draft, it seemed like a dream come true. But here’s where it gets controversial: he chose college over the pros, opting for a baseball scholarship at the University of Missouri. Was it the right call? Seven years later, Misner’s journey suggests it might have been.
At Mizzou, Misner thrived, earning Freshman All-American honors in 2017 and setting career records by his junior year. His performance caught the eye of the Miami Marlins, who selected him in the first round of the 2019 draft. Since then, he’s made his MLB debut with the Tampa Bay Rays and now finds himself back with the Royals, this time as a seasoned player with something to prove.
‘It means everything,’ Misner said of returning to Kansas City. ‘This is ultimately where I want to be.’ And this is the part most people miss: Misner isn’t just a hometown hero—he’s a player with a chip on his shoulder, determined to show the Royals what they’ve been missing.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Misner brings a combination of size, versatility, and offensive potential to the table. He’s already impressed in Royals camp, showcasing his ability to play all three outfield positions and his left-handed hitting prowess. Last season with the Rays, he appeared in 71 games, hitting .213 with five home runs and 22 RBIs. But Misner’s calling card? His defensive intensity. ‘I take a lot of pride in defense,’ he said. ‘It’s not about you—it’s about the team.’
But here’s the million-dollar question: Will Misner make the Royals’ opening day roster? With the Royals’ outfield mix already crowded—Isaac Collins in left, Kyle Isbel in center, and Jac Caglianone in right—Misner faces stiff competition. Lane Thomas and Starling Marte, recent signees, add even more depth. While Misner has minor-league options remaining, meaning he could start in Triple-A Omaha, the Royals’ tendency to utilize their entire roster gives him a fighting chance.
This spring, Misner has appeared in seven games, battling fellow left-handed hitters like Michael Massey, John Rave, and Josh Rojas for a spot. With several Royals players participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Misner has extra opportunities to showcase his skills. ‘I’m just here to play and do anything the team needs,’ he said. ‘That’s my mindset.’
Whether Misner cracks the 26-man roster or starts in the minors, one thing is clear: he’s grateful for this chance. ‘Here we are, how many years later, and I’m in the locker room,’ he reflected. ‘I’m very happy about it.’
But what do you think? Did Misner make the right choice by going to college? And does he deserve a spot on the Royals’ opening day roster? Let us know in the comments—this is one baseball story that’s sure to spark debate.
