Score: 84/100
Kansas City Royals: On the Right Track, But Pitching Remains a Concern
The Kansas City Royals are making strides toward contention, and while they finished strong in 2024 with a wildcard berth, their pitching staff is still a work in progress. The team is building around Bobby Witt Jr., who has proven himself as one of the game's brightest stars, but the lack of depth in the starting rotation remains a glaring issue. Despite this, the Royals are on the right track and could push for a wildcard spot again in 2025 if they make the right moves. Here's a breakdown of the Royals' offseason and outlook for the upcoming season.
Key Acquisitions:
Bobby Witt Jr. signed a 10-year, $200 million deal, locking in the franchise's star player for the long term. Witt had an outstanding 2024 season, with a groundbreaking league-high .322 batting average, hitting 32 HRs, driving in 109 RBIs, and stealing 31 bases. His ability to impact games in multiple ways makes him the centerpiece of the Royals' roster for years to come.
The Royals strategically acquired Jonathan India from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for right-hander Brady Singer. India, 27, provides stability at second base, offering a solid bat with a career .253 average and 63 HRs. Though he doesn't necessarily bring elite offensive production, India's consistency will be crucial in filling a key spot in the lineup.
Michael Wacha re-signed with the Royals on a three-year, $51 million deal after a strong 2024 season where he posted a 3.35 ERA and a 13-8 record. Wacha, 33, provides some much-needed experience and stability to the Royals' rotation, but the question remains whether he can replicate that performance in 2025.
Cole Ragans is a pitcher on the rise. Ragans, 26, had an impressive 2024 season, finishing with a 3.14 ERA and 223 strikeouts in 186 innings. His fastball sits in the mid-90s, and his slider is considered elite, making him a key piece of the Royals' future. With continued development, Ragans could emerge as a frontline starter for the Royals in 2025. Prediction: Ragans continues his breakout, finishing the season with a 3.12 ERA and over 218 strikeouts.
Strengths:
Bobby Witt Jr. is a legitimate star and will continue to carry the Royals' offense. His combination of power, speed, and defense makes him one of the most exciting players in the game. Prediction: Witt is projected to hit .298 with 35 HRs, 117 RBIs, and 32 SBs, with a strong chance to receive MVP consideration.
Jonathan India strengthens the middle infield and offers a reliable bat for the Royals' lineup. His ability to get on base and add consistency to the lineup should protect Witt in the batting order.
The Royals' bullpen is in a good spot, with Lucas Erceg likely to serve as the closer and Nick McArthur providing solid setup work. The additions of Hunter Harvey and the return of Taylor Clarke give the Royals a reliable bullpen that can hold leads late in games.
Needs:
Starting pitching depth is the most significant need for the Royals heading into 2025. Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Cole Ragans are solid contributors, but after them, there is a fall-off in the rotation. The Royals will need other starters, like Daniel Lynch or Kris Bubic, to step up in 2025 if they want to contend for a playoff spot.
The Royals will need Cole Ragans to continue his development and emerge as an accurate top-of-the-rotation arm. If Ragans can build off his strong 2024 performance, he'll help solidify the Royals' pitching staff.
Michael Wacha must also replicate his 2024 success. The Royals will need him to be consistent and reliable once again to provide stability to their rotation.
Weaknesses:
Inconsistent lineup contributors are another area the Royals will need to address. While Bobby Witt Jr. and Jonathan India will provide stability, players like MJ Melendez, Nick Pratto, and Edward Olivares must step up and deliver consistent offensive performances. If these players fail to contribute, it could put extra pressure on the pitching staff.
Starting pitching depth remains a key weakness. While the Royals have three solid starters in Lugo, Wacha, and Ragans, there's a significant drop-off after that trio. This could hinder the Royals' ability to contend throughout a 162-game season if they don't find more reliable options for the back end of the rotation.
Final Prediction:
The Royals are on the right track heading into 2025. With their young star, Bobby Witt Jr., locked in long-term, a solid bullpen, and the potential for continued development from Cole Ragans, the team has a lot of upside. However, the lack of depth in the starting rotation is a concern and could ultimately limit their potential.
Prediction: The Royals finish the 2025 season with 87-75, making a strong push for the wildcard once again. Their offense, led by Witt and India, should be solid, and their pitching staff, led by Ragans, Wacha, and Lugo, will keep them competitive. However, until they improve their starting pitching depth, it's unlikely the Royals will be a true postseason contender.
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