The Royals surprised the baseball world, improving by 30 wins and reaching the playoffs for the first time in nine seasons. But as Bobby Witt Jr. put it “they didn’t get this far just to get this far”, and the team has designs on being a true contender for a title.
Getting there may prove to be more difficult than simply improving a bad team. The Royals have a terrific starting rotation, but injuries could change that in a hurry. The lineup and bullpen have some strengths, but also some holes. And while ownership has been willing to spend, there are financial limitations for any small market team.