DONE DEAL: Blockbuster deal Between Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians is done…see more
As the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches in 2024, the Kansas City Royals find themselves in a favorable position. While many teams are preparing to sell and focus on future seasons, the Royals are looking to make acquisitions. After Sunday’s loss to the Chicago Cubs, the Royals hold a 57-49 record, trailing the Cleveland Guardians and the Minnesota Twins in the American League Central, and they are also competing for an AL Wild Card spot. With the trade deadline set for 5 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, the Royals are actively seeking to enhance their roster. They are particularly interested in acquiring a leadoff hitter and evaluating relief pitchers. Recently, they acquired reliever Hunter Harvey from the Washington Nationals, giving up top prospect Cayden Wallace and the No. 39 draft pick as part of the deal. Harvey, who is under contract through 2025, could become a key high-leverage option for the Royals, although he left Sunday’s game early due to lower-back spasms.
After securing their 57th win of the season, surpassing last year’s total, first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino declared that the disappointing 2023 season is now behind them. Pasquantino emphasized that every remaining game this season is crucial, as the Royals are in the midst of a playoff race. With their current record, the Royals are on track for their first winning season since their 2015 World Series victory and could potentially make the playoffs. The key question is how much they are willing to invest in their playoff pursuit. While they are unlikely to part with additional top prospects, they are open to making strategic moves. Royals general manager J.J. Picollo stated they want to be aggressive but also mindful of their future, aiming to make deals without depleting their resources. The Royals have valuable assets at Triple-A Omaha and other players who could be traded for a good return. Names like Daniel Lynch IV and Nick Pratto, with major-league experience, or prospects like Carter Jensen and Gavin Cross, could be on the table. Reports suggest the Royals are considering veterans such as Tommy Pham from the Chicago White Sox and Luis Rengifo or Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels.
**2. Will the Royals Add a Versatile Bat?**
The Royals are looking to add a versatile bat who can play multiple positions and ideally serve as a leadoff hitter. The leadoff spot has been inconsistent, with Maikel Garcia moving down the order, and manager Matt Quatraro has tried different players in this role without much success. Hunter Renfroe has been a recent standout, but the Royals need more production. Pham or Ward could be potential solutions. While Ward is not a typical leadoff hitter, he offers significant power and could enhance the Royals’ lineup. Pham, though a rental player with his contract expiring after the season, has been productive and has past experience in the leadoff role. Rengifo, with his ability to play multiple infield positions and a solid batting average, could also be an option. Another name to consider is Lane Thomas from the Nationals, who has one year left on his contract before becoming a free agent in 2026.
**3. Can the Royals Strengthen Their Bullpen?**
The Royals might need to explore the reliever market further after Sunday’s injuries to two of their pitchers. Harvey is dealing with lower-back issues, and John Schreiber left the game with a knee problem. If the Royals seek additional bullpen help, they might pursue Miami Marlins closer Tanner Scott or Los Angeles Angels high-leverage pitcher Luis Garcia. Both pitchers are in demand by contending teams. Scott has a strong 1.18 ERA and 18 saves this season, though he struggles with command. Garcia, with a 3.71 ERA and a 5-1 record, could also be a valuable addition, though he would be a rental option.
