Kansas City Royals' Breakout Lefty Named Opening Day Starter Cole Ragans, who impressed after being acquired in a trade last season with the Texas Rangers, has been named the Opening Day starter for the Kansas City Royals. Author: Brady Farkas Mar 18, 2024 10:11 AM EDT In this story: Kansas City Royals The Kansas City Royals have named left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans as their Opening Day starter. Per Anne Rogers of MLB.com: Cole Ragans will be the #Royals Opening Day starter, the team announces. The 26-year-old was a breakout sensation for the Royals a season ago and is looking to continue his ascent in 2024. He was acquired in a midseason trade last year with the Texas Rangers (for Aroldis Chapman),