As the Kansas City Royals' 2024 season closed with a heart-thumping 3-1 loss to the New York Yankees in the ALDS Game 4, their fans were left to ponder a year of highs that ended on a bittersweet note. Not since their glorious 2015 championship run have the Royals graced the playoffs, and despite the defeat, the improvements and milestones set throughout the year offer plenty of optimism.
A Season of Remarkable Growth
The Royals surged back into relevancy with a remarkable turnaround season. They boosted their win total by an impressive 30 games compared to 2023, a testament to the hard work and strategic rebuilding by the team's management and players. Entering the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, the Royals weren't just making up the numbers. They swept the Baltimore Orioles in the Wild Card Series, demonstrating a level of performance that had eluded them for several years.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Stellar Performance
Central to the Royals' success was the outstanding play of Bobby Witt Jr. With a single-season WAR of 9.4, Witt Jr. joined an elite group, becoming only the 11th player in the Integrated Era to achieve a WAR of 9.0 or greater before turning 25. His brilliance on the field was undeniable, and the anticipation surrounding his expected finish as the runner-up in the AL MVP race for 2024 was well-earned.
Witt Jr.'s future with the Royals seems secure, with a contract extending at least through the 2030 season. His presence is a cornerstone for Kansas City as they build on this year’s achievements.
Free Agency and Roster Decisions
As the Royals reflect on 2024, they must also consider the future, especially as some key players edge closer to free agency. Michael Lorenzen, Paul DeJong, Garrett Hampson, and Will Smith are among those poised to test the waters of free agency. Decisions will need to be made about retaining their talents or planning new strategies without them.
Meanwhile, Michael Wacha's $16 million player option for 2025 leaves a pivotal decision in his hands. With Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Brady Singer under contract or team control through 2025, the Royals' pitching lineup still holds core stability, even as potential changes loom.
The Offensive Puzzle
Offensively, the Royals ranked 13th in MLB for runs scored in 2024. However, their weighted runs created plus (wRC+) ranking of 20th suggests room for growth. A subpar batting line from third base, left field, center field, and designated hitter positions—hitting a combined .226/.281/.356—was below the major-league average of .242/.311/.402 for these spots. This discrepancy signals a clear area for improvement as they seek to build a more balanced and potent lineup for future success.
With the free-agent market presenting attractive options such as Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernández, the Royals could explore bolstering these positions to address their offensive gaps.
Looking to the Future
The 2024 season may have ended without a championship, but it was not without its triumphs and learning experiences. The squad, maturing and evolving, has demonstrated potential, setting a foundation that they can build upon as they aim for greater achievements in the years to come.
As the off-season advances, integrating new talent, retaining key players, and addressing the weak points in their roster will be paramount for Kansas City. The ambition showcased this season will need to be harnessed and developed as they look to capitalize on their upward trajectory, driven by their roots of resilience and renewal.