With the MLB trade deadline behind us, the focus shifts back to the game as the postseason nears. This year, the Kansas City Royals were buyers at the trade deadline for the first time in nearly a decade, investing in their unexpectedly strong 2024 season.
Royals general manager J.J. Picollo and his team provided much-needed reinforcements, concentrating on pitching. The acquisition of Hunter Harvey, although costly, has yet to yield results, while the surprise addition of veteran Michael Lorenzen has left fans wondering about his eventual role.
This trade deadline was unlike recent years for the Royals, and in all the best ways.
Tuesday, July 30, set the tone for the Royals’ strategy. Would they take a passive approach and rely on their in-house options, or would they make additional trades to strengthen their Wild Card contender status in a competitive American League?
By 5 p.m. Central Daylight Time, Royals fans had their answer.
The Royals concluded Tuesday by acquiring right-handed pitcher Lucas Erceg and versatile infielder Paul DeJong. While the full impact of these moves is yet to be seen, the initial reaction in the dugout was positive.
“We feel like we upgraded the team, and that’s really important,” manager Matt Quatraro said before Tuesday’s game against the Chicago White Sox. “I think Erceg is a really exciting arm. I think he is someone who will help us in leverage… [DeJong] said, ‘Whatever I have to do to help this team win,’ so another guy that fits.”
One new arm and one new bat. How will they affect the Royals? Did Kansas City overpay for appearances, or did they make the calculated moves necessary for success? Let’s dive in.
Leave a Reply