The 2016 season for the Kansas City Royals was average as they went 81-81 and finished in third place in the AL Central. Last season was disappointing after winning the World Series in 2015. This year the Royals look to bounce back to the top of the division, this may be out of their reach after losing five key contributors.
The team is still mourning the loss of star pitcher Yordano Ventura who shined during the 2014 and 2015 World Series runs. DH Kendrys Morales, P Wade Davis, and RF Jarrod Dyson have all been traded away which opens up a lot of cap room but could hurt the team in the long run due to their experience.
The Royals recently signed DH Brandon Moss, from the St. Louis Cardinals to the roster as Morales’ replacement. They have also signed former Cub’s P Jason Hammel and acquired P Nathan Karnes from the Mariners in the trade for RF Jarrod Dyson.
P Danny Duffy has signed a five year deal with the Royals worth 65.5 million dollars. 1B Eric Hosmer has signed a one-year deal worth 12.5 million dollars.
The Royals are looking to have a strong season with a few important players under their last year on contract.