It has been quiet time for the Kansas City Royals during the Winter meetings. That, apparently, is just how they wanted it. The team did not make any major moves, nor were they expected to. Several front office and coaching changes contributed to the decision to lay low. They have work on developing their younger players rather than signing a lot of free agents.
Behind the Scenes
Since the off-season began, first-year manager Matt Quatraro has been getting to know his players, and putting together his coaching staff. They also heard extensively from new pitching coach Brian Sweeney about his philosophies on developing young pitchers. The Royals are also working on a player development staff with an eye on improving their scouting for the upcoming season.
Developing Young Talent
Another reason the Royals are holding off on free agency signings is their new manager. Quatraro comes over from the Tampa Bay Rays, a team well known for mixing and matching players on their roster, and creating a winning lineup. A managerial change alone for this organization could give them a better sense of which players on their current 40-man roster are capable of creating a winning culture without adding to the mix.
A Few Moves
The Royals have made two moves, both on their pitching staff. Nobody really expected them to do so, but the timing and signings seem sensible. They signed left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough, who agreed to a one-year deal worth $3 million with an additional $1 million in performance bonuses. He comes over from the Rays, and has known and worked with Quatraro since 2018.
The Royals also signed right-hander Jordan Lyles to a $17 million, two-year deal. He will throw a lot of innings, and take some of the strain off the rest of the team’s young and promising staff. This is Lyles’ eighth team in his 13 year major league career.
Still Need Pitching
The Royals realize that they need pitching. Their wish list includes another starter. However, the pitching talent left in free agency is dwindling fast, so they might just stay where they are at, and develop and rely on their young arms.
As we know, pitchers typically get better as they get more experience at the big-league level. The Royals feel the highly touted Sweeney can work on developing a staff that is considered up and coming.
Zack Greinke Likely to Return
Pitcher Zack Greinke is expected to return. He wants to pitch in 2023, and is interested in a return to the Royals. If he does sign, he will continue being a mentor for the younger pitchers to learn from. This current pitching staff still needs to learn to throw strikes, and Greinke can be an esteemed resource.
Fans Not Impressed
The quiet time for the Kansas City Royals has not impressed the fans. They are not happy with the slow movement this organization has demonstrated in free agency and trades. After finishing in last place in 2022, they’re hungry for a winning season, and want more from the organization.
However, the front-office feels this team is poised to take a significant step forward be relevant again sooner rather than later. The management change brings experience and knowledge to a young team. They also bring a staff that knows how to develop talent, and to use said talent they have to the best of its’ abilities.
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