Kansas City Royals 2026 Preview: Return to the Postseason?

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Just Baseball Show

The Kansas City Royals: Underestimated Performers of the 2023 WBC

The Kansas City Royals, ranked 16th in baseball, have been somewhat overlooked nationally, but they made significant strides during the 2023 World Baseball Classic. The Royals made headlines with standout performances from key players such as Salvador Perez, who captained the victorious Venezuelan team, and Michael Garcia, who claimed MVP honors at the event. Bobby Witt Jr. also impressed with his defensive abilities. Other Royals players like Vinny Pasquantino and Seth Lugo contributed notably for their respective teams during the tournament.

The impact of the World Baseball Classic appears to be a positive catalyst for the Royals as they head into the regular season. Despite this, there are concerns surrounding veteran player Salvador Perez, especially after his statements about being comfortable with retirement. At 36, his future performance as a catcher is in question, despite his illustrious career. On the other hand, Bobby Witt Jr. is recognized as a top player in baseball, ranking third overall, with his all-around skills surpassing even Juan Soto in overall play, placing Soto fourth.

Looking towards other team members, there's potential for breakout performances from players like Carter Jensen and Isaac Collins, though the latter's consistency remains to be proven. Additionally, concerns about the Royals' pitching staff persist, particularly with Cole Reagans and Michael Wacha, whose performances have varied. Seth Lugo, another pitcher with fluctuating success, recently showed signs of regression.

Despite challenges in rotation depth, the Royals' bullpen could be a strong asset, often overlooked in broader discussions. Key relievers like Carlos Estevez, Matt Strom, and Matt Schreiber provide reliable options late in games, potentially offsetting some of the starting rotation's inconsistencies.

While the Royals face a mixed outlook, their World Baseball Classic achievements could provide a morale boost, supporting them as they tackle the ups and downs of the upcoming MLB season. However, as they prepare for changes such as moving the fences in at their ballpark, the team must balance these adjustments with strategic gameplay to maximize their roster's potential.