Royals Bolster Pitching Depth with Acquisition of Mitch Spence from Athletics

SURPRISE, Ariz. – The Kansas City Royals have acquired right-handed pitcher Mitch Spence from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for right-handed pitcher A.J. Causey, the team announced Thursday. The move adds depth to the Royals’ pitching staff as they prepare for the 2026 season.

Spence’s Journey to Kansas City

Spence, 27, was designated for assignment by the Athletics on Tuesday . He spent the past two seasons with Oakland after being selected first overall by the Athletics in the 2023 Rule 5 Draft from the New York Yankees .

In 2024, Spence made 35 appearances (24 starts) for the A’s, posting a 4.58 ERA with 126 strikeouts in 151.1 innings . He followed that up with 32 appearances (8 starts) in 2025, recording a 5.10 ERA with 66 strikeouts in 84.2 innings . Throughout his two seasons in the majors, Spence has demonstrated excellent control, issuing only 70 walks in 236.0 innings (2.7 BB/9) .

To create a roster spot for Spence, the Royals have placed right-handed pitcher Alec Marsh on the 60-day Injured List .

Causey Heads to Oakland

In exchange for Spence, the Athletics receive A.J. Causey, a 23-year-traditional right-handed pitcher who was in the Royals’ camp as a non-roster invite . Causey had a strong 2025 season in the minor leagues, going 11-5 with 9 saves in 48 appearances between High-A Quad Cities and Double-A Northwest Arkansas, maintaining a 1.72 ERA (14 ER in 73.1 IP) . He also made 9 appearances for Surprise in the 2025 Arizona Fall League, though his ERA was higher at 7.45 (8 ER in 9.2 IP) .

Causey’s First Impressions with the A’s

Causey expressed excitement about joining the Athletics organization, noting the relaxed atmosphere and welcoming teammates . He mentioned receiving advice on pitch grips from veteran pitchers Matt Krook and Joel Kuhnel . Whereas his role with the A’s is still to be determined, the team intends to evaluate his abilities during spring training .

Causey was originally drafted by the Royals in the 5th round of the 2024 Draft .