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Royals Eye Outfield Upgrade as MLB Trade Deadline Looms

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Graves | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 3:01 PM ET

The Kansas City Royals have long valued the impact of switch-hitters in the middle of their lineup.

Their 2015 World Series team got a major boost from Kendrys Morales, and that memory still resonates within the organization. This past offseason, the Royals reportedly offered a three-year, $66 million offer to another switch-hitter, Anthony Santander, who ultimately signed with the Toronto Blue Jays.

With the MLB trade deadline approaching and the Royals sitting last in the majors in runs per game, they're again exploring options to upgrade their lineup.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic , Kansas City is keeping tabs on several hitters. One name emerging as a potential fit is Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Bryan Reynolds.

While talks between the two clubs have yet to gain traction, sources briefed on the Royals' thinking indicate genuine interest.

Reynolds, 30, is warming up at the plate, improving his .644 OPS in March/April to .732 in May and .772 in June.

Despite concerns about his defensive metrics, his offensive track record from 2021 to 2024 suggests he could be a value play. However, Reynolds is still owed $74 million from 2026 to 2030, with a $2 million buyout on a $20 million club option for 2031.

With so many teams desperate for bats, Rosenthal notes that Reynolds is likely to draw attention in the coming weeks. Kansas City might be one of the teams willing to take that swing.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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