Royals Enter Offseason With Outfield and Bullpen Needs
The Kansas City Royals are targeting a right-handed center fielder and a rebuilt bullpen as they prepare for the 2027 season, after finishing 2026 with a 69-93 record.
On November 4, the Kansas City Royals began an offseason focused on addressing two clear roster needs: adding a right-handed-hitting center fielder and rebuilding the bullpen. The priorities follow a disappointing 2026 season in which Kansas City went 69-93, despite entering the year with high expectations.
The team’s outfield has lacked offensive production, particularly from right-handed hitters. One possible option is 29-year-old free-agent outfielder Luis Robert Jr., whom Kansas City could consider on a one-year, prove-it contract.
Pitching is another major concern. Injuries and uneven performances affected both the rotation and bullpen, with the relief corps emerging as the more urgent problem. The Royals may pursue bullpen help through trades and free agency.
The team could also add a starting pitcher, but strengthening the bullpen is expected to be the main pitching priority. Kansas City will spend the coming months trying to address those shortcomings before the 2027 campaign.
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