The Kansas City Royals have defied expectations in the 2024 MLB season, currently boasting a 26-19 record and sitting second in the AL Central division, just 1.5 games behind the leaders. After a dismal 56-106 record in the previous season, the Royals have made significant strides towards competitiveness.
One of the key moves that set the tone for their resurgence was the extension of 23-year-old shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. to a lucrative 11-year deal worth $288.8 million guaranteed. Witt Jr. has been a standout performer, leading the American League with a 2.8 WAR and putting himself in contention for the MVP Award.
Aside from Witt Jr.'s stellar play, the Royals made several impactful acquisitions in the offseason. Pitchers Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha have bolstered the rotation, with Lugo posting a remarkable 1.66 ERA and Wacha providing stability. Reliever John Schreiber, acquired in a trade, has been a reliable asset in the bullpen.
The coaching staff has also played a crucial role in the team's success, helping players like Alec Marsh, Brady Singer, and Salvador Perez elevate their performances. Perez, in particular, is enjoying a standout season at the plate.
While not all offseason moves have panned out as expected, the overall improvement of the team is evident. The Royals are now considered playoff contenders, with a 64.6% chance of making the postseason according to Baseball-Reference.
Looking ahead, the Royals will need to continue investing in their roster to address some deficiencies, particularly in their lineup. With a relatively modest payroll compared to other MLB teams, they may need to be active at the trade deadline to further strengthen their squad.
The transformation of the Royals from a struggling team to a playoff contender in just one season highlights the impact of their aggressive offseason moves. Fans can look forward to an exciting second half of the season as the Royals aim to secure a postseason berth.
