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.