SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals announced on Monday that they have extended executive vice president and general manager J.J. Picollo’s contract through 2030, with a club option for the following year. The team also exercised manager Matt Quatraro’s option for the 2026 season.
“J.J. is one of the best executives in baseball, and I’m proud he’s leading our drive for a championship,” Royals owner John Sherman said in a statement. “His leadership, ability to connect with people, intellectual curiosity, and innovative approach that blends traditional scouting with advanced sciences and technology are steering us toward that ultimate goal.”
Picollo, now in his 19th year with the Royals, was promoted to GM in 2021 and added the title of executive vice president in 2022. He made significant moves after the 2023 season, spending over $110 million in free agency and securing a record 11-year, $288.7 million contract extension with Bobby Witt Jr., with an option that could bring the total to $377 million.
Thanks to these efforts, the Royals posted an 87-76 record last season and made the playoffs, marking just the third time in MLB history a team has gone from losing 100 games to making the postseason the following year. Kansas City also became one of only six teams since 1961 to improve by 30 or more wins in a season. Picollo finished second in Executive of the Year voting.
“I’m honored to lead the Royals’ baseball operations every day,” Picollo said. “Matt’s leadership and his ability to collaborate across departments and seek innovative solutions are key to our progress. I’m excited for him to be with us for the long haul, and John’s confidence in our operation motivates us to continue striving for a championship and a team our fans can be proud of.”
Quatraro, who was the runner-up for AL Manager of the Year, will remain at the helm to guide the Royals into the fut
