The Kansas City Royals exemplify what makes baseball thrilling, showing that even in the face of adversity, a team can defy expectations and make an impressive comeback. Despite enduring a recent six-game losing streak, FanGraphs still projects a 77.9% chance for the Royals to reach the playoffs—a remarkable feat for a team that lost 106 games just a year ago.
This resurgence is no coincidence. Unlike many teams that resort to tanking, the Royals made a significant investment this offseason, committing $109.5 million to free agents, the highest amount in their franchise history. This approach stands in stark contrast to ownership strategies that often prioritize profits over performance.
Owner John Sherman, who clearly has a deep commitment to the team, captured the sentiment during spring training. Reflecting on the struggles of the 2023 season, Sherman told Anne Rogers of MLB.com, “It sucked. But that’s what motivates you. Sometimes you need that slap upside the head, right?”
General Manager J.J. Picollo set a clear plan for the offseason, identifying key areas that needed strengthening, including multiple starting pitchers, relievers, and an additional bat. By the time spring training arrived, the Royals had successfully addressed all of these needs.
The offseason’s standout acquisition, Seth Lugo, has been instrumental in the team’s turnaround, leading the American League in innings pitched as of Tuesday with a 4.2 bWAR. Additionally, Cole Ragans, acquired at the trade deadline, and Michael Wacha have also been key contributors, ranking among the top five in bWAR for the team this season.
The Royals’ drafting of Bobby Witt Jr. second overall in 2019 has also paid off significantly. Witt is expected to finish in the top two of AL MVP voting, having already amassed an 8.8 bWAR this season. The scouting and development team deserves recognition for this pick, which could continue to benefit the team for years to come.
Throughout the season, the Royals have remained aggressive, making four trades before the deadline to strengthen their roster further. They also bolstered their lineup by claiming veteran outfielders Tommy Pham and Robbie Grossman off waivers and trading for Yuli Gurriel. This proactive approach underscores Picollo’s commitment to continually improving the major league team.
This determination is paying off as the Royals push for a postseason spot. Although FanGraphs projected the team to win only 76 games this season, they had already secured 75 victories by September 3.
The Royals’ success is even more striking when compared to the struggles of other teams like the Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles, who pursued rebuilding strategies that involved tanking. While the Astros’ approach led to a string of playoff appearances and World Series titles, and the Orioles experienced a 101-win season last year, their recent campaigns have been less stable, with key players facing challenges.
The Royals, on the other hand, are proving that a different path—one of investment and commitment—can lead to success. Sherman’s investment in the team is poised to propel the Royals back to the postseason for the first time since their 2015 World Series victory.
As the season progresses, it’s exciting to witness a small-market team like the Royals defy the odds and rewrite the narrative in Major League Baseball.