Three questions facing the Kansas City Royals this offseason

There was plenty of optimism surrounding the Kansas City Royals heading into 2026.

They had posted consecutive winning seasons in 2024 and 2025, reaching the ALDS in the former year. As the American League Central seemed to be a weaker division, the Royals were hoping that tweaks made to the roster would be enough to return to the postseason.

Instead, the Royals imploded. Ongoing issues with the bullpen were a major factor in their disappointing 69-93 record. Changes have already come to the coaching staff as hitting coach Alec Zumwalt was reassigned within the organization. Zumwalt may be the first of many changes as the Royals look to return to the postseason.

Three questions for the Kansas City Royals

1. Can the Royals overhaul the bullpen in one offseason?

The Royals bullpen was one of the biggest reasons for their disappointing season. Their struggles began on Opening Day when closer Carlos Estevez blew the save in spectacular fashion, allowing six runs on four hits and two walks while recording one out. Estevez missed the rest of the season and the Royals bullpen never recovered as they posted a 5.07 ERA (29th in the majors) and a major league-worst 1.530 WHIP over their 573.1 innings. The Royals need to find a closer, several high-leverage arms and solid options in middle relief. The front office could be quite busy this offseason.

2. Will the Royals find answers in the outfield?

The outfield was one of the Royals' biggest concerns heading into the 2025-26 offseason. While former top prospect Jac Caglianone took a significant step forward in production, the rest of the outfield was a disappointment.

It is possible that replacing Zumwalt could make an impact. Isaac Collins was expected to be the answer in left after a stellar rookie season for the Brewers in 2025 but never found his stride. However, center field has been an ongoing black hole in the lineup. The Royals need to find an answer in center at minimum, and possibly in their fourth outfielder, to take that next step forward.

3. Does manager Matt Quatraro survive another disappointing season?

The Royals have valued stability in the dugout and front office over the past few years. That has remained the case as Quatraro signed a three-year extension with a team option for 2030 during the 2025-26 offseason. As the Royals posted consecutive winning seasons, and Quatraro had grown during his time on the bench, such an extension was justifiable.

The narrative has changed somewhat. Quatraro still has plenty of job security heading into 2027. At the same time, the Royals continue to have high expectations and are looking to return to the postseason. If the front office succeeds in revamping the roster, it will be on Quatraro to put the Royals in a position to meet those lofty goals. Should 2027 be another down year, questions about Quatraro's future will get a lot louder.