The expectations are clear for the Kansas City Royals in 2026. It is a playoff-or-bust mentality. After making a postseason push in 2024, returning to October is the focus across the organization. Despite finishing above .500 in 2025, the Royals did not reach the postseason, leaving the season viewed as a disappointment.
Last season, the Royals lacked offensive depth. Outside of the core group of Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia, Vinnie Pasquantino, and Salvador Perez, production was limited. After a year of trial and error and an active offseason, the club hopes to field a more reliable offense in 2026.
For one player in particular, this season carries significant weight.
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Eyes will be on second baseman Jonathan India