The Royals are trying to build home runs instead of buying them

After years of losing seasons, the last two seasons have been a turnaround for the Kansas City Royals. They made the postseason in 2024 with their 86-76 record, but took a step back in 2025, finishing the regular season with an 82-80 record, but missing the postseason.

This offseason could have been a huge one for Kansas City, but they have only made a handful of moves. They acquired Matt Strahm in a trade with the Philadelphia Phillies, and Isaac Collins and Nick Mears in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers.

On the free agent front, the club came to terms with Lane Thomas on a one-year, $5.25 million deal. They also signed Alex Lange on a one-year deal as well to bring some swing-and-miss stuff to the bullpen.

MORE: Royals predicted to sign $27 million three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger to upgrade from MJ Melendez

The Royals are trying to build home runs instead of buying them

During a time when the AL Central is seemingly open, the Royals have failed to get inherently better. They still lack a true middle-of-the-order power bat to help protect guys like Bobby Witt Jr. or Vinnie Pasquantino.

Instead of looking for a batter to help bolster the lineup, the club’s biggest offseason decision has been to move the fences at Kauffman Stadium, bringing in the corner outfield by 9-10 feet and shortening the wall height from 10 to 8.5 feet.

The Athletic’s Chad Jennings urges the club to make a big splash and not have their new outfield dimensions remain their biggest offseason story.

“Moving in the outfield fences might be the biggest move of the offseason. The Royals traded for outfielder Isaac Collins, rolled the dice on outfielder Lane Thomas, and added some relievers, but they haven’t made anything that qualifies as a splash.”

Marcell Ozuna is still waiting for his newest opportunity for the 2026 season. He could be a great addition, especially for a team that just made it easier to hit home runs at their home ballpark.