Fresh off their first playoff appearance since their 2015 World Series victory, the Kansas City Royals entered the offseason with high hopes, ready to build on their success. General manager J.J. Picollo and the team’s front office made bold moves, strengthening their roster with key signings and trades aimed at pushing them closer to championship contention.
The Royals boosted their bullpen by inking All-Star reliever Carlos Estevez to a two-year, $22.2 million deal. They also made waves by trading pitcher Brady Singer to the Cincinnati Reds for 2021 NL Rookie of the Year Jonathan India, securing starter Michael Wacha with a three-year, $51 million contract, and bringing in right-hander Michael Lorenzen on a one-year, $7 million deal.
Despite these moves, the Royals’ biggest offseason target slipped through their fingers, leaving Picollo visibly emotional.
According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, 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. Santander, who had an outstanding 2024 season, would have provided significant power to a lineup that already features stars like Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, and Vinnie Pasquantino. Santander’s 44 home runs and 102 RBIs last season made him one of the most sought-after free agents this winter.
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However, Picollo’s hopes of landing the slugger were dashed when Santander instead committed to the Toronto Blue Jays, signing a five-year, $92.5 million contract. The Royals, despite their best efforts, were unable to close the deal, leaving the general manager deeply disappointed.
Though Picollo and the Royals’ front office are undoubtedly feeling the sting of this missed opportunity, the team remains focused on continuing their upward trajectory heading into the 2025 season, determined to build on their playoff success and strengthen their roster further.