The Kansas City Royals, who made significant waves in November, have seemingly gone silent in December. After re-signing Michael Wacha to a three-year, $51 million contract and securing Jonathan India in a trade with the Cincinnati Reds, the team appeared poised for further moves. However, the Royals have since stalled in their pursuit of bolstering their roster.
Despite these earlier transactions, the Royals still have room for improvement, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. With the goal of returning to postseason contention in 2025, Kansas City might benefit from targeting specific players in free agency who offer both value and versatility.
The Royals’ Offseason So Far
Re-Signing Michael Wacha
The Royals made headlines by locking in Michael Wacha, a reliable arm who proved his worth last season. His three-year, $51 million deal provides stability to the Royals’ rotation, which is essential for competing in the challenging AL Central.
Adding Jonathan India
Kansas City bolstered their infield by acquiring Jonathan India, a rising star with a solid bat and defensive capabilities. India’s addition brings much-needed depth and offensive firepower to the Royals’ lineup. However, the team’s batting order still feels incomplete.
Why December Has Been Quiet
While the Royals made aggressive moves early in the offseason, the quiet December may reflect a deliberate strategy. With high-profile free agents commanding top-dollar contracts, Kansas City might be waiting for the market to settle. This approach allows the team to identify undervalued players who can provide excellent production at a reasonable price.
Ha-Seong Kim: A Potential Fit for the Royals
A Top Free Agent Still Available
The Royals could benefit from considering Ha-Seong Kim, a versatile shortstop who remains one of the top free agents on the market. According to The Athletic, Kim is an intriguing option despite undergoing shoulder surgery in September.
“September shoulder surgery came at the worst possible time for Kim, who was unavailable to the Padres in the playoffs and now has a big question mark attached to his free agency,” the outlet reported. “He’s unlikely to be ready by Opening Day, and any loss of arm strength would put a dent in his value.”
While his injury may deter some teams, Kim’s age and skillset still make him an attractive option. At just 29 years old, he has the potential to secure a multi-year deal and bounce back as a productive player.
Why Kim Makes Sense for Kansas City
- Affordability: Given his injury and market conditions, Kim might come at a bargain price, fitting the Royals’ budget-conscious approach.
- Versatility: Kim’s ability to play multiple infield positions provides Kansas City with flexibility, especially alongside India in the infield.
- Power Potential: Kim offers some pop from the right side of the plate, which could complement the Royals’ lineup and address their offensive needs.
The Royals’ Offensive Needs
Despite adding India, the Royals still lack consistent power and depth in their batting order. Kim’s presence could enhance their lineup by adding a dependable bat capable of producing in high-pressure situations. Moreover, his defensive skills would strengthen the team’s infield, helping to mitigate errors and improve overall performance.
Alternative Options
While Kim is a strong candidate, the Royals could explore other free agents or trade targets to address their needs. Players with high on-base percentages, strong defensive skills, or proven postseason experience should be on Kansas City’s radar. The key is finding individuals who can deliver value without breaking the bank.
Predictions for the Royals’ Next Move
Waiting for Market Opportunities
The Royals are likely waiting for the free-agent market to cool, which could lead to better deals for mid-tier players like Kim. This calculated patience could allow them to secure impactful additions without overspending.
Building for the Future
Kansas City’s approach this offseason suggests they are not only focused on immediate success but also building a sustainable foundation for the future. Adding younger players like India and potentially Kim aligns with this strategy.
Recommendations for the Royals
- Pursue Ha-Seong Kim: Kim’s combination of affordability, versatility, and potential makes him a logical target for Kansas City.
- Focus on Depth: Beyond high-profile signings, the Royals should strengthen their bench and bullpen to improve their overall roster.
- Stay Aggressive: While December has been quiet, maintaining an aggressive approach in January and February could set the stage for a successful 2025 season.
Conclusion: The Royals’ Path Forward
The Kansas City Royals made bold moves early in the offseason, but the lack of activity in December has left fans wondering what’s next. With offensive needs still looming, targeting players like Ha-Seong Kim could be the key to filling gaps in their lineup and positioning the team for a return to the postseason.
While the offseason is far from over, the Royals have an opportunity to capitalize on undervalued talent and continue building a competitive roster. If they make the right moves, 2025 could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Kansas City baseball.