Kansas City Royals Gear Up for Offseason with Clearer Shopping List
After a successful season that ended in the AL Division Series, Kansas City Royals General Manager J.J. Picollo is preparing for the offseason with a more focused shopping list. Unlike previous years, when the team had to address multiple holes, this year’s priorities are clearer.
Refining the Team
Picollo acknowledged that the team’s inability to get on base and drive in runs was a major issue down the stretch. To address this, the Royals will look for someone to get on base at the top of the lineup and provide more offensive punch in the middle of the order. “There’s less questions to answer,” Picollo said. “Now, it’s about how do we refine this team?”
Challenges Ahead
While the Royals have a clearer idea of what they need, finding the right players won’t be easy. “As much as we may say we need a slugger and someone to get on base, there’s not that many people available to do that,” Picollo noted. The team will have to be strategic in their acquisitions, focusing on quality over quantity.
Free Agency and Player Updates
The Royals were active in free agency last year, signing All-Star pitcher Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha. Lugo will return next season, but Wacha has an opt-out clause in his contract. Picollo expressed interest in re-signing Wacha, citing his strong performance and fit with the team.
Payroll Disparity
The Royals’ payroll of $117 million is significantly lower than that of teams like the Mets and Yankees. While Picollo acknowledged that the disparity can be frustrating, he emphasized that the team must work within its means. “Whatever the rules of engagement are with any particular owner, you have to make that work,” he said.
Coaching Staff and Health Updates
Manager Matt Quatraro expects his coaching staff to return next season, with no major changes anticipated. In terms of player health, second baseman Adam Frazier will undergo thumb surgery, while first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino will be evaluated in a month to determine if the plate in his thumb can be removed. The team also hopes to have Kyle Wright available in the spring after he missed the entire year rehabbing from shoulder surgery.
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