The Kansas City Royals’ offseason needs are just like all of the other MLB Teams; they need an impact outfielder with a power bat to boost their offense. They also need help at second base, and even though they had a decent bullpen last year, they are looking to add more dependability.

Offensive Importance

Infielders Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt, Jr., are already established as power hitters, but they need help. Even with the production from these two, the team finished in the bottom five of home runs, RBIs, and runs scored. Adding another power hitter will also provide more protection in the lineup and prevent pitchers from working around Witt, Jr.

Outfield Power

As mentioned, the Royals, like many other teams, are looking for a power bat. They’re hoping to find one in an outfielder. They want outfielders who can provide power and depth on offense and consistency in their defensive play. The team mentioned at the Winter Meetings that they would be looking for a power hitter via trade or free agency.

Second Base

Another area of emphasis is finding a consistent and dependable second baseman. Last season, Jonathan India, Nick Loftin, and Michael Massey all played the position. However, there was a lack of offense from all of them, and all struggled. India had trouble with his fielding. Loftin, seen as a utility infielder, struggled to hit MLB pitching. Massey dealt with nagging injuries. An upgrade would undoubtedly help the team both offensively and defensively.

Bullpen Help

The Kansas City Royals’ offseason needs include more bullpen depth. They traded for veteran left-hander Matt Strahm last week and are still looking to add. One thing on their list is another left-handed arm. Last season, the Royals went through many left-handed relievers but never found a reliable arm for the late innings. Adding a lefty will be a start toward the depth the team seeks.

Pitching Depth

While they continue to seek bullpen arms, the team does have pitching depth to offer teams in trade. The Royals are one of the few teams with the “problem” of having too many starters. At this time, the questions are whether they will consider dealing from their rotation and, if so, who they are willing to part with. Their surplus of starting pitchers, as well as a selection of minor league pitchers in the top 30 of their prospects, will most likely draw interest from other teams. The question for those teams is what they are willing to give up to the Royals to get what they need—is starting pitching worth a power-hitting outfielder?

Free Agent or Trades

How the Royals acquire these needed players is another concern. Free agents aren’t always easy to deal with and sign, especially when competing with other teams looking for the same thing(s). Trades are usually a more straightforward proposition. Deals can generally be worked out because they benefit both the trading and the acquiring teams. However, the bottom line is that the team needs to make deals and trades to fill their roster holes.

Key Extension

The Royals did sign All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia to an extension. As reported by Jeff Passan, the deal will keep Garcia in a Kansas City uniform for the next five seasons, with a club option for a sixth year. In his third season last year, he put up career numbers in hits, doubles, home runs, and RBIs. Also, Garcia’s outstanding play defensively helped him win a Gold Glove.

Before Spring Training

The Royals have already been active this offseason as they look to return to the playoffs. Look for more trades as they finalize their roster ahead of Spring Training, which begins in February 2026.

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