The Royals finished third in a weak American League Central. This was a middle-of-the-pack result that leaves room for improvement.

Their pitching staff produced two all-stars in Kris Bubic and Carlos Estévez. Their infield saw great production as well: Bobby Witt Jr. earned a second all-star nod and his second gold glove, Maikel Garcia was a first-time All-Star and Gold Glove Award winner and Vinnie Pasquantino hit 32 home runs.

Kansas City has a chance to compete for their division in the coming years, and with that comes playoff implications. Here are three free agents who could help the Royals contend.

Kyle Tucker — Right Fielder/Designated Hitter

At 28, Kyle Tucker is entering his prime. He’s coming off his second career Silver Slugger season, and he’s a four-time All-Star, a Gold Glove Award winner and a World Series champion. Tucker would provide steadiness in a lineup that, besides Witt and Garcia, doesn’t hit for a high average. He can also supply a power boost in a very pitcher-friendly ballpark.

Since Tucker is currently one of the biggest names on the market, he will command a significant contract. A short-term “rental” could still benefit Kansas City, and then he could mentor an up-and-coming star in Jac Caglianone.

Jorge Polanco — Second hitter/Designated Hitter

Jorge Polanco provides another element to the offense as a switch hitter. He could also give the Royals serviceable defense at second base or serve as a designated hitter.

Polanco is a former All-Star who has hit at least 20 home runs in three different seasons. He also brings postseason experience from his time with the Mariners, who lost to the Blue Jays in seven games in the American League Championship Series. At 32, Polanco still has some good years in front of him, and he remains a cost-effective option to stabilize the infield after Jonathan India’s difficult first season in Kansas City.

Devin Williams — Relief Pitcher

Devin Williams is one of the most decorated relievers over the last few years. Despite struggling with the Yankees in 2025, he had been unhittable in previous seasons. Williams is also a two-time Reliever of the Year and two-time All-Star.

Williams, who is now 31, definitely deserves to be in the major leagues despite his struggles this past season. With Estévez as their closer, the Royals could bring in Williams as their setup guy. Due to the struggles that he’s had, his next deal is going to be a prove-it deal.

If the Royals get the best version of Williams and Estévez, they’ll have the best one-two punch out of the bullpen in the MLB.

While every team should go for high-leverage guys and big home run hitters, it feels like the Royals are only a couple of pieces away from contending for a World Series. Targets such as Tucker, Polanco and Williams should help, but Kansas City doesn’t have a reputation for pulling in big names in free agency. The Royals’ most recent notable signing was Seth Lugo in 2023. It’s time for Kansas City to make a splash.

 

Edited by Jack Wiselogel | [email protected]
Copy edited by Ellenna Forbes and Emma Harper | [email protected]
Edited by Chase Pray | [email protected]