Dreaming up an ideal batting order for the 2026 Royals

September hasn’t gone the way the Kansas City Royals hoped it would. The team entered the month with a chance at the playoffs, but a 9-11 record over the last 20 games sealed their fate. 

The biggest issue for the Royals all season has been their offense. While they currently are 13th in the American League in runs scored, only four ahead of the Chicago White Sox, their run total was skewed by a record-setting 20-run explosion against the Blue Jays last week. 

The Royals need to address a few key areas in the offseason, and they require a couple of their young stars to improve so they can assume larger roles in 2026. 

What would an ideal lineup look like for the Royals next year?

In a perfect world, several things need to go right for Kansas City this offseason. If that unlikely scenario were to unfold, the offense would look much different and be more potent. The lineup could look something like this.

1. Carter Jensen, C

Jensen is making the most of his September call-up, hitting .289 with eight extra-base hits. He’s walked six times while only striking out nine times in 51 plate appearances. If he can continue to develop, he could be the lead-off hitter the Royals need. 

2. Bobby Witt Jr, SS

This is an easy one. Witt has locked down the two-spot in the order and is a true superstar. He’ll probably finish in the top five in the AL MVP race for the second season in a row. 

3. Vinnie Pasquantino, 1B

Pasquantino has turned into a full-fledged run producer with 108 RBI. He had 97 RBI last year before getting hurt in late August. He is also realizing his power potential, hammering 31 home runs and 31 doubles this season. 

4. Maikel Garcia, 3B

Garcia has enjoyed a breakout season in 2025, despite a September swoon. His slash line is terrific at .288/.354/.455, and he plays a fantastic third base. He is a cornerstone for the future.

5. Unnamed Leftfielder

The Royals have to address this glaring hole in their lineup. There isn’t anyone in-house that can adequately fill this spot, so they must look to acquire a big bat, either through a trade or free agency. 

6. Salvador Perez, DH

At 35, Perez is still productive. He has 30 home runs and 97 RBI. The Royals are banking on him having one more year left, but he will probably catch less and play more DH.

7. Jac Caglianone, RF

Caglianone has struggled during his rookie season, hitting a paltry .164. His Batting Average on Balls in Play (.178) indicates that he’s had some horrible luck, but his power is tantalizing. If he can work on some things in the offseason and improve during spring training, he could be a fixture for a long time.

8. Michael Massey/Jonathan India/Unnamed Player, 2B

Massey has been hurt, and India has suffered through the worst year of his career. The Royals may address this hole by adding an upgrade, but it’s most likely to be Massey, if healthy. 

9. Kyle Isbel, CF

Isbel is a terrific fielder, but he hit a toothless .255 this season. He has 24 extra-base hits and only 33 RBI. He isn’t a good base runner, but if the Royals can improve at left field and second, they can live with his glove in center. 

The Royals have some rotation depth from which to trade, so they might try to improve the offense that way. There is no doubt it needs to be done if the team expects better results in 2026.