The Kansas City Royals may have found their future infield anchor in Texas A&M's Chris Hacopian—a player one analyst calls "one of the safest picks in the entire 2026 MLB Draft class." As the Royals battle through a slow start to the season, the front office has another reason to look ahead: the draft kicks off July 11, and Kansas City holds the No. 6 overall pick, a significant jump from last year's 23rd selection.

With the Chicago White Sox securing the top spot, the Royals face a pivotal decision: target a position player or add an arm to the rotation? Looking at recent history, Kansas City has taken just one true pitcher in its last six first-round picks—prep arm Frank Mozzicato in 2021. That trend suggests the front office may lean toward a bat again this year.

Enter Hacopian, a versatile infielder who has climbed mock draft boards with his polished offensive game. After shifting from shortstop at Maryland to second base for the Aggies, he's posted a strong .289/.393/.496 slash line, with seven doubles, six home runs, and 27 RBIs. Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter notes Hacopian's 60-grade hit tool and overall plate discipline make him an exceptionally reliable prospect. He consistently barrels fastballs, makes contact, and has experience at shortstop, second, and third base—giving the Royals defensive flexibility as they build for the future.

For a team seeking stability and offensive production, Hacopian could be the perfect fit to anchor the infield for years to come.