The Kansas City Royals have wrapped up their 2024 season with a mix of accomplishments and what-ifs, finishing with a narrow exit from the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the New York Yankees. Despite the Game 4 loss, where they were edged out 3-1, the Royals have demonstrated a significant turnaround that speaks volumes about their rebuilding success.
A Season of Growth
Reflecting on 2023, the strides made by the Royals in 2024 are nothing short of remarkable. The team increased their win total by 30 games, a testament to their hard work and strategic enhancements. This rejuvenated performance led the Royals to their first playoff appearance since their triumphant World Series victory in 2015. An emphatic sweep of the Orioles in the Wild Card Series was a highlight, showcasing the potential bubbling under the surface of this burgeoning team.
The Bobby Witt Jr. Show
Central to this resurgence has been the exceptional play of Bobby Witt Jr. The young shortstop posted a stunning single-season WAR of 9.4, which places him among an elite group of players achieving a 9.0 or higher WAR before age 25 in the Integrated Era. Witt Jr.’s outstanding performance has him pegged to finish second in the American League MVP race, underscoring his vital role in the team's turnaround. Royals fans can take solace in knowing that Witt Jr. remains under contract through at least the 2030 season, positioning him as a cornerstone for future endeavors.
Upcoming Free Agency Challenges
Yet, the Royals face pivotal decisions as the offseason approaches. The potential departure of key players such as Michael Lorenzen, Paul DeJong, Garrett Hampson, and Will Smith to free agency looms large. Additionally, Michael Wacha’s $16 million player option for the 2025 season adds another layer of complexity to the team’s future roster setup.
Fortunately, the Royals have ensured that foundational elements like Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Brady Singer remain under contract or team control through at least 2025. This gives Kansas City a solid pitching base to build upon as they navigate the free-agent market and potential roster adjustments.
Offensive Gaps and Market Solutions
Offensively, there is room for improvement. While the Royals ranked 13th in runs scored, their weighted runs created plus (wRC+) figure only allowed them to secure the 20th spot in MLB rankings. Particularly concerning is their collective batting average from third base, left field, center field, and designated hitter spots, which languished at .226/.281/.356, trailing the major-league average of .242/.311/.402.
To address these gaps, the upcoming free-agent market presents interesting possibilities, including talents such as Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernández. Adding proven run producers could help elevate the team’s offensive performance and bridge the current disparity in productivity compared to league averages.
Looking Ahead
As Kansas City evaluates their approach this offseason, their recent trends offer a foundation of hope and aspiration. The momentum gathered from this historic improvement provides a beacon for future ambition. With a promising core and strategic enhancements, the Royals stand well-positioned to build upon the legacy of their 2024 season — a year replete with challenges, achievements, and the promise of what's to come.
The Royals’ journey through 2024 may have ended sooner than hoped, but the groundwork has been laid for an electrifying future. As the team reflects and retools, fans can eagerly anticipate what lies ahead, with the aim of recapturing the championship magic reminiscent of 2015.