The Kansas City Royals finished the 2024 season with an 86-76 record, securing the second wild card in the American League. They swept the Orioles but fell to the Yankees in the ALDS.

While the pitching staff showed promise, the offense struggled, particularly in the postseason, with key players like Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino underperforming.

Despite these challenges, the Royals made significant progress, marking their first winning season since 2015 and showcasing the talent of Witt, who emerged as a superstar.

Looking ahead, the team must address weaknesses in the outfield and bullpen while considering free-agent acquisitions to bolster their roster for a competitive 2025 season.

The Kansas City Royals quickly eliminated the Baltimore Orioles in the American League Wild Card Series, advancing to the ALDS. Bobby Witt Jr. has emerged as a key player, drawing attention in the MVP race.

As the Royals look to bolster their offense for 2025, they might target Paul Goldschmidt, who is expected to leave the St. Louis Cardinals as they begin a rebuild. Goldschmidt's veteran presence could complement the young Royals lineup, especially alongside Witt.

The Kansas City Royals are on the brink of advancing to the American League Division Series for the first time since 2015 after a narrow 1-0 victory against the Baltimore Orioles in the Wild Card Series opener.

As they eye a potential World Series run, the Royals face offseason challenges with several players becoming free agents, including Hunter Renfroe and Adam Frazier. They may consider trades to bolster their roster, with St. Louis Cardinals' Willson Contreras being a potential target.

Contreras, who has had a strong offensive season despite injuries, could bring valuable experience to the young Royals team. However, Kansas City would need to craft a significant trade package to acquire him from their I-70 rivals.

The Baltimore Orioles face a critical moment in their postseason as they attempt to end a nine-game playoff losing streak, with their latest defeat coming against the Kansas City Royals.

Starting pitcher Zach Eflin, who has been a standout since joining the Orioles, will take the mound in hopes of turning the tide. Meanwhile, the Royals aim to secure their first postseason series win since 2015.

The Kansas City Royals have secured a playoff spot, marking their first postseason appearance since winning the World Series in 2016. This achievement comes after a challenging season, including a seven-game losing streak, but they rebounded by sweeping the Washington Nationals.

With their current performance, the Royals are set to face either the Houston Astros or Baltimore Orioles in the AL Wild Card series. Their success is attributed to strong pitching and standout performances from players like Bobby Witt Jr.