The Kansas City Royals ended their 2024 Major League Baseball season on an emotional note, bidding farewell to the playoffs with a 3-1 defeat against the New York Yankees in the ALDS Game 4. This loss might be bittersweet, yet it can't overshadow the tremendous progress made by the Royals over the last year.
Royals' Remarkable Turnaround
The Royals' transformation from 2023 to 2024 is nothing short of impressive. They increased their win total by a staggering 30 games, a feat not achieved since their majestic 2015 run that culminated in a World Series victory. The journey to the postseason was a testament to their revival, marking their first playoff appearance in nearly a decade.
Their postseason berth was highlighted by a commanding sweep over the Baltimore Orioles in the Wild Card Series, illustrating their capability to perform under pressure and laying the foundation for what could be a new era of success in Kansas City.
A Season to Remember for Bobby Witt Jr.
At the heart of the Royals' resurgence was young star Bobby Witt Jr., whose exceptional performance has put him in elite company. Witt recorded a single-season WAR of 9.4, becoming only the 11th player to amass a WAR of 9.0 or greater before turning 25 in the Integrated Era. This achievement not only underscores his individual brilliance but also his crucial role in the Royals' success this year.
Projected to finish second in the AL MVP race, Witt has firmly established himself as a cornerstone for the franchise. Locked in under contract with the Royals through at least 2030, Witt’s presence bodes well for the team’s future aspirations.
Contract Changes and Player Movements
Despite their achievements, the Royals face a challenging offseason with several key players possibly on the move. Michael Lorenzen, Paul DeJong, Garrett Hampson, and Will Smith are set to enter free agency, prompting the Royals' front office to strategize effectively. Additionally, Michael Wacha's decision looms large as he holds a $16 million player option for the 2025 season.
On a brighter note, the Royals have some stability with Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Brady Singer secure under contract or team control through at least 2025. This core group offers the team a solid foundation as they look to build on this season’s success.
A Glimpse at the Numbers
Analytically, the Royals placed 13th in MLB for runs scored in 2024, a significant improvement over prior years. However, they ranked 20th in wRC+, indicating there is room for improvement in the consistency and quality of at-bats.
Particularly, the team’s third base, left field, center field, and designated hitter spots had offensive metrics that fell below league averages, hitting a combined .226/.281/.356 compared to the major-league averages of .242/.311/.402. Addressing these deficiencies will be crucial if the Royals aim to enhance their competitiveness against more prolific offenses.
Future Prospects
As Kansas City prepares for the next chapter, they will inevitably look to the upcoming free-agent market. Players like Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernández present intriguing options to bolster their lineup, providing the firepower and depth necessary to compete at the highest levels.
Reflecting on a pivotal season, the Kansas City Royals have given their fans plenty of reasons to cheer and optimistically anticipate what's next. As they chart their course forward, the lessons and triumphs of 2024 will undoubtedly serve as a beacon, guiding their quest to reclaim baseball glory.