After making their first playoff appearance since the 2015 World Series win, the Kansas City Royals have been active this offseason, making bold moves to strengthen their roster.
The team boosted their bullpen by signing All-Star reliever Carlos Estevez to a two-year, $22.2 million deal. They also made a splash by trading pitcher Brady Singer to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for 2021 NL Rookie of the Year Jonathan India, securing starter Michael Wacha with a three-year, $51 million contract, and bringing back right-hander Michael Lorenzen on a one-year, $7 million deal.
However, one key target slipped through their fingers.
According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Royals offered Baltimore Orioles All-Star outfielder Anthony Santander a three-year, $66 million contract, which included an opt-out clause and deferred payments. Despite their efforts, Santander ultimately chose to sign a five-year, $92.5 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Had Santander joined the Royals, he would have added much-needed power to a lineup that already includes stars like Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, and Vinnie Pasquantino. The slugging outfielder had a breakout 2024 season, posting a career-best .235/.308/.506 line with 44 home runs, 102 RBIs, 91 runs scored, and 58 walks. Over the last three seasons, he has hit 105 home runs.
Although missing out on Santander was a blow, the Royals remain committed to building on their success from 2024 as they prepare for the 2025 season.
