The Kansas City Royals entered the 2024-2025 offseason with ambitions to strengthen their roster following a successful 2024 campaign, where they secured an 86-76 record and made their first postseason appearance since 2015. General Manager J.J. Picollo emphasized the need to raise expectations and improve the team, stating, “If we’re going to be more demanding of our Major League players, and the expectations are going to be raised, then we need to raise the expectations by putting a better roster together.”
Initially, the Royals aimed to be aggressive in the starting pitching market and made offers to several starters, including Sonny Gray. However, after facing a slow start and limited responses from potential signees, the team pivoted their strategy towards bolstering the bullpen. This shift led to the signing of veteran reliever Will Smith on December 10, 2024, to a one-year, $5 million contract.
Continuing their focus on strengthening the bullpen, the Royals signed All-Star closer Carlos Estévez to a two-year deal with a club option. Estévez, who had a standout season with a 2.45 ERA and 26 saves, is expected to take over the closing role, allowing Lucas Erceg to transition to the eighth-inning setup position. These strategic acquisitions aim to enhance the Royals’ pitching depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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