The Kansas City Royals can be legitimate contenders in 2025, but not as currently constructed.
Two primary flaws plagued the Royals in 2024: the bottom half of the lineup and the bullpen. Bobby Witt Jr. was sublime at the top of the order and Kansas City’s starting rotation was excellent, but the more anonymous players on the roster failed to come through when called upon in big spots.
Addressing the bullpen will be key if the Royals want to advance farther in the playoffs, because the relief pitchers let Kansas City down in a big way this season. Two converted starters (Michael Lorenzen and Kris Bubic) blew playoff games late, while most of the longtime relievers the Royals signed either struggled or got hurt…