After advancing to the American League Division Series in 2024, the Kansas City Royals are looking to add impact to the middle of the order this offseason.

And according to The Athletic, the Royals are more likely to do so via the trade market than via free agency.

But the work is not finished. According to a team source briefed on Kansas City’s moves, the Royals plan to pursue a mid-tier bat and are more likely to acquire that bat through a trade rather than free agency. This won’t rule out the possibility of acquiring another pitcher or bench player, but the priority remains adding a slugger.

The Royals have a solid middle order with Vinnie Pasquantino, Salvador Perez and MVP runner-up Bobby Witt Jr., but they clearly want to continue adding depth to the order. They already went out and acquired second baseman Jonathan India this offseason in a deal with the Cincinnati Reds.

If the Royals prefer the trade market, there is no clear hitter that fits their financial desires. We know the Cardinals are willing to move Nolan Arenado and the Cubs could move Cody Bellinger, but both come at a steep price.

Would the Cleveland Guardians trade Josh Naylor across the division? Would the White Sox trade Luis Robert Jr. across the division?

MLBTradeRumors said the Royals’ payroll already stands at about $116 million, similar to what they opened 2024 with, so it remains to be seen how much they are willing to add this offseason.

However, with Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo leading a talented pitching staff, the Royals certainly have an opening to hit in the American League. It seems they are determined to seize this opportunity.

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