Story by
Marlins Trade Former First-Round Pick Jacob Berry to Royals for Cash
- Story by
- Marlins Trade Former First-Round Pick Jacob Berry to Royals for Cash
The Miami Marlins traded former first-round pick Jacob Berry to the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday in exchange for cash considerations, ending the infielder's four-year tenure with the organization.
Fish On First beat writer Isaac Azout first reported the deal after the trade deadline. Because Berry was not on the Marlins' 40-man roster, the clubs were permitted to complete the transaction despite Monday's non-waiver trade deadline having passed.
Advertisement
The move comes with Miami in the middle of the National League Wild Card race. The Marlins entered Wednesday at 58-56, while the rebuilding Royals were 47-67 and last in the American League Central.
Berry spent the entire 2026 season at Triple-A Jacksonville, where he batted .251/.372/.362 with four home runs, 34 RBIs and 18 stolen bases across 243 at-bats. The 25-year-old also posted a 15% walk rate before landing on the development list on July 25.
Advertisement
Selected sixth overall out of LSU in the 2022 MLB Draft, Berry signed for a reported $6 million bonus and was once viewed as one of Miami's top offensive prospects. However, he never reached the major leagues as his power production stalled in the upper minors.
Miami Marlins hat USA TODAY Sports
The trade gives Berry a fresh opportunity in Kansas City 's organization, where he is expected to report to Triple-A Omaha. The Royals will look to capitalize on his plate discipline and former first-round pedigree while evaluating whether a change of scenery can unlock more offensive production.
Advertisement
For Miami, the move reflects the organization's continued willingness to move on from former top prospects who no longer fit its long-term plans. Berry now gets another chance to revive his career with a new club.
ALSO SEE:
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
