Kauffman Corner: Recent Episodes
Soren Petro
Rany Jazayerli (@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (@SorenPetro) are dedicated to covering the Kansas City Royals. Everything from yesterday's game to the very latest on the Royals top prospects. Top shelf analytics to pure passionate fan reaction, and everything in between when it comes to Royals baseball.
Lifelong Royals fans. Jazayerli was a founder of Baseball Prospectus, author of the blog "Rany on the Royals" and a published writer with Grantland, The Ringer, Sports Illustrated and The Athletic. Petro has hosted local and national sports talk radio since 1994 and hosted hundreds of Royals Pre and Post game shows. From hundred loss seasons to champagne drenched clubhouses, Petro has covered the Royals for close to 30 years.
Sit back and enjoy Royals fans!
Even though the Royals were outclassed in a three game series with the Cubs, Jac Caglianone made a huge impression with a four hit, two homer game. How good can he be?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the monster performance from Caglianone and discuss the latest roster moves for the Royals.
- Cubs take 2 of 3.
- Caglianone has a monster day.
- Do the Royals have to sign him this offseason?
- Craig Kimbrel is a Royals.
- Is Carter Jensen wearing down?
- Can Daniel Lynch be a longterm answer in the rotation?
- Lucas Braun impresses in his first Omaha start.
- Limiting Kendry Chourio’s workload.
- Minor League pickups.
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The 2026 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline has come and gone. Did the Royals get it right?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what the Royals did and what they didn’t do at the Deadline.
- Did the Royals get enough for Lane Thomas?
- What did the Royals get in Lucas Braun and Carter Holton?
- Not moving Wacha and Luga means what for 2027?
- Could not dealing be the right move?
- How valuable is payroll flexibility?
- Luinder Avila hits the DL!
- John Rave is hitting.
- So is Blake Mitchell in the minors.
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George Brett hit his 316th and 317th Home Runs on September 26th, 1993. Almost 33 years laster Salvador Perez hit his 318th Home Run to break George Brett’s franchise record. How many more does Salvy have left in him?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Salvador Perez, the record and much more…
- Fighting back to split the series with Detroit.
- Salvy breaks the franchise Home Run Record!
- Carlos Beltran enters the Hall of Fame!
- How big is the gap between Garcia and Loftin?
- Is Massey the answer at second base?
- Who will the Royals actually trade?
- Trade or sign Lane Thomas?
- Is Noah Cameron fixed?
- Can you build a bullpen in one offseason?
- Which players in Omaha should get a look?
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The Draft and All-Star Game are in the Royals rearview mirror. Time now to focus on the trade deadline. What should the Royals be targeting?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the trade deadline and what’s left for the Royals to play for in 2026.
- What’s the value in a series with now?
- Noah Cameron continues to struggle.
- Bobby Witt Jr.’s back issue.
- How to approach the Trade Deadline?
- Add Stephen Kolek to the list of hurt pitchers.
- What will the Royals pitching staff look like in ’27?
- Is Isaac Collins good enough to win with?
- How the Royals Farm System look post-draft?
- When can we officially just Brian Bridges?
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The Royals held the #6 pick in this year’s MLB Draft but chose to take a player that was ranked #30 by MLB.com. Was going signability early the right move for the Royals in this draft?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals 2026 Draft and discuss what’s next for the Royals.
- How good is Louisville, OF Zion Rose?
- Did the Royals get it right with this move?
- Is Taylor Rabe worth the extra money?
- Why High School pitcher Jack Slightom?
- Is Maxx Yehl more than just a reliever?
- Why Dominic Battista might be better than his ranking.
- Where else could the Royals have hit in the draft?
- What’s next?
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Royal General Manager, J.J. Picollo spoke with the media this week and didn’t sound at all like a GM that is looking to sell at the deadline. Are the Royals kidding themselves about how competitive they will be moving forward?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what the Royals plan should be as the draft and trade deadline approach.
- The Royals get two on the All-Star team.
- Cole Ragans goes under the knife… again!
- Picollo talks about the trade deadline.
- What will the Royals rotation look like next year?
- Who can the Royals look to deal?
- How close are the Royals to contending?
- Where to look in the draft?
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The Royals slogged their way through a 3-4 Road Trip that included a 22-1 ass kicking at the hands of the White Sox. So what does it look like when the Royals should consider making a change with the Manager?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what would need to happen for the Royals to look to a new manager, Carter Jensen and more.
- What to make of the (3-4) Road Trip?
- Losing 22-1 means what?
- When is it time to change Managers?
- More Outs on the bases… Stop with the excuses!
- Carter Jensen is the Royals #1 Catcher?
- Bubic coming back as a Reliever?
- Cole Ragans scheduled for surgery.
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Jac Caglianone was moved into the number three spot in the lineup and he’s proven ready for the challenge. Is he ready to be a star?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Caglianone, the improved offense and all of the injuries.
- Is Jac Caglianone becoming a star?
- Have the Royals figured out the offense?
- Perez breaks the Royals Kauffman Stadium HR record.
- Why aren’t the Royals using the IL more?
- Can it get any worse with the injuries?
- How have the call ups performed?
- Who should the Royals promote next?
- What to expect with Pick #6 in the Draft?
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The Royals have not only added players to the Injured List but the ones that were already hurt now have new injuries as well.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the injuries to Kyle Isbel and Vinnie Pasquantino, the set backs for Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic and the obvious signs that it’s time to sell.
- The Home Stand is a disaster.
- Vinnie Pasquantino’s now hurt.
- Cole Ragans rehab hits the breaks.
- Kris Bubic now has a shoulder problem as well.
- The worst record in the American League.
- Seth Lugo’s in concussion protocol.
- Luinder Avila is not a starter, but…
- No real replacement for Isbel.
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The Royals managed a .500 road trip and watched Alex Lange go three for three on Save opportunities. Let’s talk Royals Pitching.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals 5-2 week…
- What a .500 Road Trip means.
- Bobby Witt leaves with a sore knee.
- Has Alex Lange solidified the Closer’s Job?
- Noah Cameron is back!
- Is Luinder Avila a legit Starter?
- Kris Bubic trade value.
- Will .500 be good enough to make the Wild Card?
- Cags runs into the wall. ️
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Buddy Bell said years ago that it can always get worse. How?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the depths of the Royals problems now.
- How could it possibly get worse?
- Can the Royals justify keeping Zumwalt now?
- Update… Where did the Royals go wrong?
- Shaking up the lineup!
- How to fix the bullpen?
- Could the Royals trade multiple starters?
- Should KC be focused on ’27 or beyond?
•⁃What players have the most trade value?
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The Royals found a way to win two games. Is this a sign they are figuring things out or just baseball?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals series win over Seattle and more…
- Did the Royals figure something out against the Mariners?
- When is a team truly out of it?
- If the Royals are healthy, what are they?
- How is Stephen Kolek this good?
- What’s the Starting Pitching plan when everyone’s healthy?
- Where did we overestimate this team?
- Is the MVP Bobby Witt’s to lose?
- The latest Royals prospect rankings.
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With only one win on the Royals road trip to Chicago and St. Louis the mood is not good. Are the dark days here to stay for the Royals?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether this is the end of contention for the Royals or just another speed bump.
- How damaging was this road trip?
- Stephen Kolek bounces back in a big way!
- What to do with the lineup now?
- Still believe good times are coming for Vinnie?
- A couple of homers for Salvy means…
- Do the Royals miss Zach Bove?
- The Royals 9th Inning ERA is 5.74.
- Will Bailey Falter succeed in the bullpen?
- What would it take to make the Royals sellers?
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The Royals lost Cole Ragans to the IL last week. How worried should the Royals be? Can Stephen Kolek hold the fort? Did the Royals miss an opportunity to trade Ragans this past offseason?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Ragans issue and much more…
- How serious is the latest Ragans injury?
- Did the Royals miss the chance to trade Ragans?
- Can Stephen Kolek get the job done?
- Should the Royals look for an Estevez replacement?
- Does Salvy need to be dropped from the Clean Up spot?
- Who else can bat 4th?
- Is Bobby Witt Jr. gearing up for an MVP run?
⁃ The week ahead… at Chicago and St. Louis.
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The Royals completed the sweep of the Mariners in Seattle to complete a winning 4-2 road trip. So where’s the confidence level for this club now?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) decide what to make of the winning road trip and more…
- How confident should fans be with this team?
- 3 Runs with no Hits… luck or skill?
- Vinnie Pasquantino has begun to hit.
- How good is this bullpen?
- Cole Ragans is not good on the road!
- Time to platoon Jensen or Caglianone?
- Jonathan India’s done for the year!
- The Royals top 10 Prospects according to Kyle McDaniel.
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The Royals bats came alive this week and they won some games. Have they turned the corner?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what’s changed with the lineup and look ahead to a six game West Coast trip.
- Royals pull off biggest comeback in MLB this year!
- Is Bobby Witt Jr. getting hot?
- Has Jac Caglianone figured it out?
- How good is Carter Jensen?
- Is a Loftin/Massey platoon the answer at Second Base?
- Cole Ragans was dealing. - Is Daniel Lynch ready for more?
- What will it take to win the Central?
- Is Crown Center the right location for a ballpark?
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Now the Royals can’t pitch either. Back to back bad outings from Royals starters have dropped them to 7-15 on the season. Is this Rock Bottom?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the 7-game losing streak, Salvador Perez commotion and what to expect next.
- Salvy’s out of the lineup, but not off twitter.
- What does (7-15) mean?
- What’s wrong with Cole Ragans?
- Level of concern with Noah Cameron is…
- Are the Royals heads in the game?
- Would Caglianone hit better if he was playing first base?
- Good news from the minors.
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The Royals continue to hang around .500 with little to no help from their bats. Is there anything that can be done to get the offense going?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the lack of offense, the great starting pitching and the latest on the stadium…
- When will the bats wake up?
- Is it time to change the lineup?
- Should Maikel Garcia hit further down?
- When will Pasquantino awaken?
- Is Salvy done?
- Great starting pitching more about the schedule?
- Pitching depth taking a hit.
- City Connect uni’s.
- The Mayor has a financing plan.
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The Royals had a chance to measure themselves against the current King of Small Market Baseball, the Milwaukee Brewers, dropping 2 of three over the weekend.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals performance against the Brewers and Twins earlier in the week…
- Is the bullpen officially a problem?
- What to make of the Kris Bubic start today?
- Which Royals hitters are we worried about?
- Has Kyle Isbel turned a corner?
- Is Seth Lugo back to his ’24 form?
- Luinder Avila is not a Starter!
- Did we over-rate the Royals pitching depth in the minors?
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The first series of the season is in the books. So why not over-react to the good, the bad and the ugly?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals dropping two of three in Atlanta to begin the year…
- Carlos Estevez was blown up by the Braves.
- What are the other options to close?
- Wacha and Lugo look strong in their starts.
- What should the Royals expect from Bubic and Cameron?
- Did we over-rate the offense?
- Carter Jensen has already gone deep!
- Looks like the new “City Connect” uniforms have leaked.
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On a special Royals Opening Day edition of the Kauffman Corner Podcast, Rany Jazayerli is back to help us make our “Bold & Daring Predictions” for the 2026 Season.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Dr. Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder of Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) to lay out 15 “Bold & Daring Predictions”…
- How many homers will this team hit?
- Who will have the big seasons at the plate?
- Are any Royals headed for MLB Hardware?
I- s the Farm System ready to blossom? - Will this pitching staff dominate with the K?
- Who scores all the runs for this team?
- Is the Royals Offense really ready to walk?
⁃ Does Caglianone get on base enough to make a difference?
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The 2026 Season is less than a week away for the Kansas City Royals, so it’s time to make our predictions for the Royals ’26 Postseason awards. The good doctor, Dr. Rany Jazayerli joins us to put in his two cents are who the best of the Kansas City Royals will be.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Dr. Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder of Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) to help us predict what the ’26 Royals season will be and who will win the awards.
- Player/Pitcher of the Year.
-
Breakout Player.
-
Biggest Disappointment.
- Best Position Player not named Bobby Witt Jr.
- Best Pitcher not named Cole Ragans.
- Best Reliever.
- Biggest Impact Rookie.
- Top Prospect at the end of the year.
- Royals Record.
⁃ Key Story Line of the season will be…
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The Royals are making quite a statement at the WBC. Taking walks and knocking the ball over the wall. Does this mean the Royals Offense is fixed?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the impressive offensive explosion from Royals hitters at the WBC and more…
- Vinnie Pasquantino has his first three homer game.
- Royals batters are taking their walks.
- Jeff Passan says the Royals will have a top 10 Offense.
- How much better can the Royals be at the plate?
- What will Carter Jensen’s career look like?
⁃ Where is the floor and ceiling for Jac Caglianone?
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The WBC is under way and numerous Royals have seen action. How have they done and what does it mean for the upcoming Royals season.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the latest from the WBC and the Royals.
- Should the Royals worry about how many players are in the WBC?
- Bobby Witt Jr. embraces the leadoff at the WBC.
- Seth Lugo looks good in his first start.
- What to make of Michael Wacha’s mixed bag?
- Maikel Garcia bats second for Venezuela.
- Vinnie Pasquantino starts slow.
- Jac Caglianone sits for Italy.
- Luinder Avila allows too many baserunners.
- Still no Carlos Estevez for the Dominican Republic.
- Adding to the Royals Broadcast team.
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The Royals have reportedly agreed to a deal with veteran outfielder, Starling Marte. What should the Royals expect from him and how does he fit into the lineup?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Marte addition and the latest from Royals Spring Training.
- Starling Marte bring what to the Royals?
- How Marte fits into the Outfield.
- Bobby Witt Jr. in the leadoff?
- Key players showing patience at the plate.
- Lugo, Ragans and Bubic make their debuts.
- Putting the bullpen together.
- Carter and Jac have a big day!
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We’ve got real Spring Training baseball to discuss, so let’s over-react to the first few games of Spring Training.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) react to the Royals first three games and discuss how the roster may come together…
- Who are the most important pitchers after Cole Ragans?
- How will the Royals fit their pitching depth?
- Where should Maikel Garcia bat?
- What’s the best batting order for the Royals?
- Where are the roster battles?
- Who and where are the best spots for the Royals to platoon?
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With Spring Training underway it’s time to start breaking down the American League Central. How do the Royals measure up to the Tigers, Guardians, Twins and White Sox?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) rank the American League Central 1 to 5 in five key categories…
- Offense.
- Starting Pitching.
- Bullpen.
- Defense.
- Base Running.
⁃ Conclusions!
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The Royals lose another member of their 2015 Championship team and what do the Royals need to accomplish at Spring Training?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking…
- Remembering Terrence Gore.
- Lugo, Bergert and Bubic throwing free and easy!
- Carter Jensen looks like an everyday catcher.
- Lucas Erceg is getting the K's.
- Can Jac Caglianone take the next step?
- Has the power returned for Blake Mitchell?
- Can Issac Collins keep his OBP up?
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With just 10 days remaining until Spring Training we chat with Royals General Manger, JJ Picollo.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Kansas City Royals to discuss the job of a General Manager and the season ahead.
- What plans did Picollo have going into the job?
- What has been more difficult than expected?
- Hiring Matt Quatraro.
- Getting more On Base Percentage.
- Building the Farm System.
-
Signing young Stars.
-
Getting bad offers from other GM’s.
⁃ What can still get done before the season?
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A week ago we looked at the Hitters with the biggest potential variance in their 2026 season and how they would affect the success of the Royals. This week we look at the Pitchers. Which of the 2026 arms have the biggest potential distance between their ceiling and floor and thereby will have the biggest impact on the season?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are selecting the pitchers that can have the biggest impact on the Royals success or failure in 2026.
- What did we learn from putting our list together?
- Which Pitcher has the biggest distance between ceiling and floor?
- How to handle all the pitchers returning from injury?
- Where to put Cole Ragans on the list?
- Does a reliever make a big enough difference to make the list?
- Which pitchers just missed making the list?
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The Royals have become one of the savviest organizations in baseball when it comes to pitching. The man behind that is Pitching Coach, Brian Sweeney.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), pinch hitting for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli), and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Sweeney to discuss…
- Creating a Pitching Legacy in KC.
- What went into trading Freddy Fermin.
- Dealing with injuries in ’25.
- The importance of the Strikeout.
- Chase Rates.
- Changing the fences at Kauffman Stadium.
⁃ Working cohesively with all parts of the organization.
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Major League Baseball teams love consistency in a player. At the same time they are always happy to discuss a player’s “ceiling”. So which of the 2026 Royals have the biggest distance between their ceiling and floor and thereby will have the biggest effect on the Royals chances?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are selecting the players that can have the biggest impact on the Royals success or failure in 2026.
- Which Hitter has the biggest distance between ceiling and floor?
- Does moving the fences in change the list?
- Where does Jac Caglianone fit into the equation?
- Is there still upside with Salvy?
- Can the Royals expect the same number from Carter Jensen?
- Is Bobby Witt Jr. too good to make this list?
- What Hitter is the most consistent and reliable?
- What did we learn from making the lists?
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ESPN’S Senior Major League Baseball Insider joins the Kauffman Corner Podcast to talk Royals and all things Baseball.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Jeff Passan to discuss the Royals offseason and more.
- Have the Dodgers ruined the sport?
- Are we headed to a labor stoppage in ’27?
- Evaluating the Royals Offseason.
- Is trading Cole Ragans a good idea?
- Where Matt Quatraro ranks among Managers?
⁃ What will bringing the fences in means for the Royals?
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The Royals are moving the fences in. What this means for the ’26 Royals and beyond.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what the effect of a smaller ballpark will be for the hitters, pitchers and the and the fans…
- Biggest winners and losers?
- Will this attract more free agents?
- Does it change the type of players the Royals look for?
- Will it affect the Outfielders defensively?
- Why not move Center Field in as well?
- How many Homers will the Royals hit in ’26?
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It there any help on the Farm? Did the Royals get it right in arbitration? How many players on the Royals Hall of Fame ballot should get the call?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss where the Royals can expect help form their Minor Leagues and more.
- The Royals avoid arbitration with 6 players.
- Pasquantino and Bubic head to arbitration.
- Is there an arm or two in the minors that can help?
- Will any bat from Omaha even make the bigs?
- The Royals Hall of Fame ballots are in.
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Last week (Episode 241) we projected where the Royals would be better/worse among the Position Players and this week we’re taking a look at the Pitching Staff.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the pitching staff by how many wins they think the Royals have improved or regressed this offseason.
- Royals extend Matt Quatraro through '29/Option for '30.
-
Health is the key at the top of the Rotation.
-
Back of the rotation may not be what it looks like now.
- Is middle relief one of the biggest improvements?
- Did the back of the bullpen improve with the Strahm addition?
- Should the Royals fear the age of the back of the pen?
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The Royals have quietly increased payroll again this offseason. Have they gone as far as they can go?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals payroll and more…
- Are the Royals at their Payroll limit?
- Do they need to trade payroll?
- Will Kris Bubic be moved?
- Was not signing Hunter Harvey a mistake?
- Have the Royals added enough OBP?
- Does their bullpen have enough K’s?
⁃ Where are the position battles looming?
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Position by position, where are the Royals better and/or worse on offense?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down each of the Royals positions around the diamond and discuss where they will be better or worse…
- KC still in, on Austin Hayes.
- What to learn from Ryan O’Hearn’s deal w/Pittsburgh.
- How much Carter Jensen improves Catcher?
- Can the Royals be better on the infield?
- Can’t be worse in the Outfield, right?
- Expectations for Jac Caglianone?
- How the DH looks in ’26.
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Who are the 10 best pitchers in Royals history?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) each lay out their Top 10 Royals Pitchers….
- Do they agree on the top spot? (Spoiler… No!)
- How much do the Cy Young awards matter?
- Who was the most surprising addition?
- Which arm was the toughest cut?
- Did No-Hitters carry any weight?
⁃ How many Relievers made the list?
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The Royals look to their past to fill their need for a lefty in the bullpen.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest trade by the Royals and take their first shot at what the roster will look like in 2026.
- Breaking down the Matt Strahm trade.
- Why the Phillies would part with Strahm?
- What’s the Home Run move that’s left for the Royals?
- Do the Royals have any money left?
- Not moving a Starter a bad sign?
- Projecting the Opening Day Roster!
- When will the Royals decide where to put their Stadium?
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The Royals have finally announced their flurry of moves. Isaac Collins, Nick Mears, Lane Thomas and an extension for Maikel Garcia… is that enough for this offseason?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what the Royals have gotten done and look ahead to what might still be to come.
If this is it, is it enough?
- What to expect from the Maikel Garcia extension.
- Will Garcia improve on his ’25 season?
- Where Lane Thomas fits best?
- Why did the Brewers make this trade?
- Can Isaac Collins play every day?
⁃ What more can the Royals do?
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A signing, a trade and an extension… It took a little while but the Royals finally got things moving with their offseason.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) react to the Royals flurry of moves…
- Royals sign outfielder, Lane Thomas.
- Royals trade for outfielder Isaac Collins.
- Are the Royals done adding outfielders?
- What did the Royals gain/lose in swapping Zerpa for Mears?
- Do the Royals need a left handed Reliever now?
- Locking up Maikel Garcia.
⁃ What’s left for the Royals to do this offseason?
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It’s all quiet at the Winter Meetings for the Royals. What should we make of that?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the latest rumors and more…
- Royals have offers out to Free Agents.
- Did the Royals blow it on Mike Yastrzemski?
- Who should be the Royals target?
- What the Schwarber/Alonso deals mean for Pasquantino.
- The Royals gain 7 spots in the draft lottery.
- One OP business doesn’t want the Royals in their backyard!
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The Winter Meetings are underway and the Royals have been rumored to be interested in a number of different Outfielders. When will rumors turn into action?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the names the Royals are said to be interested in.
- Still just rumors at the Winter Meetings.
- Is Harrison Bader the best the Royals can do?
- A reunion with Mike Yastrzemski inevitable?
- Should the Royals be willing to deal Cole Ragans?
- Is there really a market for Kris Bubic?
- Will ownership green light spending what it takes?
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Are the Royals really shopping Cole Ragans? What would it take for KC to move their ace?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest trade rumors and the free agent market for the Royals.
- Is Cole Ragans really being shopped?
- What it would take to move Ragans?
- Reaction to early Free Agent signings.
- Who KC should be targeting now.
- What is Alex Lange?
- What Mike McFerran brings to the coaching staff?
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Who are the Free Agents that much up best with the Royals? Is there a way it makes sense for the Royals to go after the top free agent, Kyle Tucker?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are drafting Free Agents for the Royals and discussing what’s the smartest way for the Royals to approach free agency.
- Does Kyle Tucker make sense?
- What other top Free Agents could fit the Royals?
- Where are the value targets?
- Is there a pitcher that makes sense?
- Who are the sleeper Free agents?
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After George Brett, how do the Royals top 10 position players stack up?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are ranking their top 10 position players in Royals History?
- Who gets #2 after Brett?- Where does Bobby Witt Jr. land?
⁃ Where does Bobby Witt Jr. land? - Is Salvy the second best Royal all time?
- Who is the most under-rated Royals position player?
⁃ How to rank the old school players?
What happens when you take a middle aged doctor and tell him to go play eight competitive baseball games after not playing the sport for almost 30 years? He has the time of his life!
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Rany’s week at Royals Fantasy Camp with his camp coach, former Royal Jamie Bluma!
- What was the experience like?
- What’s Jamie Bluma’s scouting report on Rany?
- Did Rany hit?
- How did he do on the mound?
- What is Rany’s pitching arsenal?
⁃ Was Rany the last camper drafted?
The Royals added two players to the 40-man Roster to keep them from the Rule 5 draft, but not the two former first round picks! Did the Royals get it right in who they protected?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest roster moves and size up the trade market.
- Kudrna and Zubac added to the 40.
- Royals decline to protect Mozzicato and Cross.
- How did the Royals draft so poorly for so long?
- Kris Bubic continues to be the top name on trade lists.
- Did the Royals miss the boat on Taylor Ward?
- Who KC should target in trades?
- Royals Team Awards!
The Royals are rumored to be talking to several teams about outfielders. Who should the Royals land? Who should they be willing to part with?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) sift through all the rumors and more…
- Thoughts on the hitting coach hires.
- Is Bubic the right arm to dangle in trades?
- Royals talking Outfielders with the Angels and Red Sox.
- Is Bendan Donovan a good fit for the Royals?
- Is Jac Caglianone a platoon player?
- Did the Royals get the Salvador Perez contract right?
⁃ Reaction to acquiring Mason Black from the Giants.
The Royals added Marcus Thames and Connor Dawson as big league hitting coaches and added a year to Salvy’s contract. What’s it mean and what’s next?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest Royals moves and more.
- What Marcus Thames and Connor Dawson add?
- Did the Royals get it right with Salvy’s new deal?
- Noah Cameron finishes 4th in the ROY voting.
- What does Mason Black bring to KC?
- The latest Royals trade rumors.
- Passan thinks Gleyber Torres is a great fit in KC.
The Kauffman Corner Podcast welcomes J.J. Cooper, the Editor-in-Chiefs for Baseball America to update where the Royals Farm System currently sits.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) ask Cooper about…
- How the Royals system has progressed?
- The 2025 Draft’s high ceiling.
- What to make of Jac Caglianone now?
- Is Carter Jensen as good as his first look?
- Outlook for Kendry Chourio and David Shields.
- The difficult job JJ Picollo has navigated.
⁃ Is Blake Mitchell still a top prospect?
The World Series is over and the clock is officially ticking on the 2026 season. What are the 5 most important things the Royals need to accomplish this offseason?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) each give their list of 5 things the Royals needs to get done this offseason…
- Acquiring a legit outfield bat.
- Upgrading the hitting coaches.
- Improving the bullpen.
- Creating more whiffs!
- Extending Salvador Perez.
- Improve the little things.
- Trade a Starter.
- Figure out the Ballpark.
⁃ Extend Vinnie!
The Dodgers have won the World Series for a second straight year. What can the Royals learn from both the Dodgers and the Blue Jays?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the World Series from a Royals perspective and more…
- What should the Royals learn from the Dodgers success?
- The Blue Jays did what that the Royals can copy?
- Salary Cap anyone?
- Where are the Royals already World Series caliber?
- Time to sign who?
- Any surprise names the Royals should be locking up?
⁃ Rany’s headed to Fantasy Camp!
What about the Blue Jays and Dodgers brought them to the World Series? Time to break down what made these team pennant winners and look at how they compare to the Royals.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) dive into the World Series and more.
- Comparing the Blue Jays and Dodgers?
- Where do the Royals measure up to these teams?
- Which Royals would play for the Jays and Dodgers?
- What are the Pros and Cons to extending Pasquantino?
The man behind the Royals analytics department stops by Kauffman Corner. We talk Royals baseball with the Vice President - Research & Development/Assistant General Manager of the Kansas City Royals, Daniel Mack.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Daniel Mack to discuss…
- Growth of the analytics department.
- On Base Percentage and the Royals lack of it.
- Carter Jensen.
- Jan Caglianone.
- Noah Cameron.
- Minor League numbers projecting to the Big Leagues.
- Bio Mechanical Data.
- Getting the data to the players.
⁃ Going for it at the trade deadline.
Should the Royals be locking up Maikel Garcia? If so what is it going to take to get a deal done?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Garcia’s future with the Royals and more…
- What it will take to lock up Maikel Garcia?
- Is this the right time to sign Garcia?
- How many Royals is the arrow still pointing up for?
- Do the Royals have to trade a starting pitcher?
- What to look for in the World Series?
- Giants make history with their Managerial hire.
Anyone can put together a prospect list, but how many people can put together a draft of Royals Prospects?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) evaluate the Royals Farm System by taking turns drafting Royals Prospects.
- Does anyone top Carter Jensen?
- Where do young arms Shields and Chourio land?
- How high do the 2025 draft picks go?
- Where is the Royals depth in the system?
- Did the injury drop Blake Mitchell?
- Is there any immediate help?
⁃ Have the Royals fixed their lack of Latin talent?
If the Royals only way to find the bat they need for 2025 is to make a trade, which players are “untouchable”?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss who the Royals should consider to be “Untouchable” and more…
- Which LCS teams does the Royals Offense most resemble?
- KC lands 3 Gold Globe finalists.
- Royals Sr. VP/Assistant GM Scott Sharp a finalist for Rockies GM.
- Who is untouchable for the Royals this offseason.
- Which players should the Royals be willing to part with?
How did we do on our 2025 Preseason Prospect Rankings?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a look back at what our expectations were for the Royals top prospects in the system and more…
- Did the Royals get it right with the hitting coaches?
- Where did the Royals hitting improve?
- Our 2025 Prospects Rankings.
- What we got right!
- What we got wrong!
- Who made the biggest jump?
The Royals have a massive 16 players eligible for arbitration. How many should the Royals keep and how many should they walk on?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the many arbitration cases to determine which players the Royals might want to save the money and move on from…
- 16 Royals eligible for arbitration.
- Kris Bubic coming off injury.
- Is Jonathan India worth the money?
- Does Michael Massey have a spot?
- Multi-year deal for Maikel Garcia?
- Royals cut bait with their Assistant Hitting Coaches.
It’s time to see how we did on our Preseason Predictions. From who we thought would be the best hitter and pitcher to our Bold and Daring Predictions for the season.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) go over the predictions they crushed and more importantly the ones that were a complete swing and miss.
- Player/Pitcher of the Year.
- Breakout and Disappointment.
- Best Reliever.
- Impact Rookie.
- Key story line.
- Final Record.
⁃ Bold & Daring Predictions!!!
JJ Picollo and Matt Quatraro met with the media to wrap up the 2025 season and begin to look ahead to 2026.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals season ending presser and more.
- Was this season a success?
- Are the Royals better than a year ago?
- Hitting staff shake up?
- Still talking about small ball!
- Payroll expectations for ’26?
- Salvy contract talks.
- Jonathan India only at second base?
The 2025 Season came to an end Sunday. Time to hand out our final grades for the Royals.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether this season was a success for the Royals and hand out letter grades on each aspect of the team.
- Was 2025 a success?
- Grading the Starting Rotation.
- Bullpen.
- Lineup.
- Coaching Staff.
- Front Office.
Cole Ragans dominates with 10 K’s in 5 Innings. But what should the Royals expect in ’26 from Ragans and the rest of the rotation?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the swing and miss ability of Ragans and how to use him next year.
-
Ragans dominates again!
-
Best way to use Ragans in ’26?
- What’s in a winning record?
- What in the ’26 lineup is already set?
- Do the Royals actually need Starters?
⁃ What to learn from the Tigers and Guardians?
The 2025 Season is winding down and the injuries are starting to pile up on the pitching staff. Do the Royals already have a health problem for 2026?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the mounting injuries and start to look ahead to 2026. - Carter Jensen batting leadoff… Crazy or Genius?
- Do the Royals already have a health problem in ’26?
- Is this the cost of making pitchers better?
- How important is .500?
- Was this a good season?
- What constitutes a successful season in ’26?
- Want what out of the final week?
- Top priority in 2026 is...
Carter Jensen’s two homer game gave a glimpse of his immense potential. Jensen and what else should Royals fans be watching the rest of the season?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what to look for in the final days of the 2025 Season.
- Carter Jensen shows the pop! - Lugo gets shut down.
- Bergert hits the IL with forearm tightness!
- Salvy hits some milestones.
- Why Free Agents should want to come to KC?
- Who and what to watch for the rest of the season?
- Royals Organizational Awards.
After getting beaten up by the Guardians and Phillies the Royals dreams of a playoffs to finish the season are officially done.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss how the Royals came up short and whether something should’ve been done differently in this 2025 season.
- It’s officially over, correct?
- What could the Royals have done differently?
- What did the Royals gain by “going for it”?
- What did the Royals lose by “going for it”?
- How should KC approach the rest of the season?
The Royals Playoff hopes aren’t dead but they are on life support.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what it’s going to take for the Royals to make the Post-Season.
- How do the Royals get to October?
- Quatraro managing for the sprint?
- Are the Royals lacking emotion?
- Why is Cole Ragans still pitching in Omaha?
- Where did the Royals Offense go?
- Is leadoff Maikel Garcia’s permanently?
- Luinder Avila, just what the bullpen needs?
The injuries continue to pile up for the Royals, but they just won’t quit on the Wild Card race.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest on the injuries to Seth Lugo and Bobby Witt Jr. and discuss how the Royals can stay in the fight for the AL Wild Card.
- What has to happen for the Royals now?
- Seth Lugo’s ailing back.
- Cole Ragans dominates in Omaha.
- How should the Royals use Caglianone and Jensen?
- Will left handed pitching be the Royals undoing?
- How long can the Royals last without Witt?
- The Bergert trade looks better and better!
The Royals have dropped the first two games of a series with the Angels that was considered one of the last “Easy” series left on the Royals schedule. Is this too much to overcome?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the playoff picture and more.
- Why can’t the Royals beat the Angles?
- What’s wrong with Bobby?
- Bergert a rotation fixture?
- Can the Royals still make it to post-season?
- What’s going on with Caglianone’s stance?
- Jensen just pinch hitting?
- Is Massey fixed?
- Lugo has back tightness.
Jac Caglianone, Carter Jensen and Luinder Avila were called up to the big club. Did the Royals get it right with the roster expansion?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) in for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about the latest additions to the roster and take measure of the Royals pursuit of another playoffs.
- Did the Royals get the call-ups right?
- Should Caglianone play every day?
- How much should Carter catch?
- What role is best for Avila?
- The schedule ahead.
- Lugo continues to struggle.
- How to use Ragans when he returns?
- Is Jonathan India a problem?
- Making Royals pitchers better.
- Can the Waiver Wire help?
Bobby Witt’s numbers are off a little from last but he’s still having a very good season. Could he heat up and steal the MVP?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss why putting a couple bucks on Bobby for the MVP isn’t such a bad idea.
- Latest Playoff view for the Royals.
- Why there’s value in a Bobby Witt Jr. MVP bet.
- Do the Royals have enough bullpen depth?
- Should the Royals try to resign Yastrzemski?
- Who will the September Call Ups be?
- Is Salvador Perez a Hall of Famer?
The Royals dropped two of three in Detroit and have just 31 games left in the season. What’s it going to take for the Royals to make the Playoffs now?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the rest of the Royals schedule and if the Royals can find enough wins to make it back to the post-season.
- Thoughts on the Tigers Series.
- Remaining Schedule.
- Look like Lugo’s not fixed after all.
- What’s gotten into the Royals offense?
- Should Caglianone be back in the lineup already?
- Are we taking Bobby Witt Jr. for granted?
- Bobby’s future is what?
Bobby Witt Jr. becomes the youngest Royal to reach 100 career homers.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are discussing how Bobby Witt Jr. finishes the season and what he’s capable of in his career.
- Royals Playoff Chances.
- BWJ youngest Royal to 100 Career Homers.
- Flipping Yastrzemski and Jonathan India
- When to bring back Jac Caglianone?
- How much upside is left with Vinnie Pasquantino?
- Taking their walks and hitting home runs!
- Do the Royals have enough bullpen?
- The value of Maikel Garcia.
- Salvy is catching more.
Did the Royals do enough to realistically think they are still in the hunt for a playoff spot in the American League?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a look back at the 9 games against sub .500 teams and determine whether it was good enough to think the Royals can still get into the 2025 MLB Playoffs and much more…
- Was (6-3) in the last nine good enough?
- What's wrong with Seth Lugo?
- How does the schedule shape up moving forward?
- Is Ryan Bergert turning into Cole Ragans 2.0?
- Early returns on the other trade acquisitions?
- Time for Jac Caglianone to return to the big leagues?
- What do the Royals have in David Shields and Kendry Chourio?
- This week, Rangers and Tigers… what’s success look like?
Seth Lugo has given up seven runs in his last two starts, did the Royals make a mistake in extending his contract?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the struggles of Seth Lugo and discuss what it’s going to take for the Royals to make the postseason now?
- Are the Playoff Odds accurate?
- Did the Royals make a mistake signing Lugo?
- Should Cole Ragans pitch this year?
- How Michael Lorenzen fits back in?
- What is Ryan Bergert?
- Managing the roster moving forward.
- Looking at the minor league pitching.
The Royals can’t afford to be losing to teams that sold at the deadline, but that’s what they did in Minnesota.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals series loss to the Twins and discuss where they go from here.
- Did this weekend end the Royals Playoff chances?
- Who should bat leadoff for the Royals?
- Thoughts on Bailey Falter and Ryan Bergert.
- Noah Cameron keeps mowing them down!
- How should the bullpen be deployed?
- Did John Rave play himself out of a job?
- When is it time to call up Carter Jensen?
- Who should the Royals add when the rosters expand to 28?
Matt Quatraro takes Jonathan India out of the lead off spot and it works for both the top of the lineup and Jonathan India. So what’s next?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking Jonathan India, the playoffs and more.
- Where to hit Jonathan India?
- What’s India’s future with the team?
- How do the Royals make the playoffs?
- Does the remaining schedule help?
- Grading Ryan Bergert’s first start?
- Can Bailey Falter rebound?
- Is Salvy playing too much?
- Will the outfield platoons work?
- Why can’t this team run the bases better?
The Royals have used the momentum of the trade deadline to win their 4th straight series. So how good are the Royals now?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what the Royals were able to accomplish with the deadline and look forward to the stretch run.
- Rany weighs in on the Royals Deadline moves.
- How much better is the club?
- Are the Royals good enough to make the playoffs?
- How much better did KC get in ’26 and ’27?
- What is the plan for the offseason now?
- Royals have won 9 of 13.
- Should we worry about Carlos Estevez?
- Do the Royals make the playoffs?
The Royals didn’t sell at the deadline, but did they do enough to be a serious playoff contender?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals Trade Deadline moves and look at what to expect for the rest of the season.
- What did the Royals get in Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek?
- Did the Royals trade the wrong catcher?
- Where does Bailey Falter fit with the pitching staff?
- How much does Mike Yastrzemski help?
- What does Randal Grichuk do to the lineup?
- Did the Royals buy enough?
- Should they have dealt Carlos Estevez?
- Did they miss a window to trade Kris Bubic?
The Royals have extended Seth Lugo's contract. He gets a $3M signing bonus and two years at $20M per year. There is a club option for a third year at $17M. That year can vest for $20M if certain incentives are reached.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Lugo extension and whether this is the right move heading into the trade deadline and more.
- Was extending Seth Lugo the right thing to do?
- Is it a god contract?
- What does Kris Bubic to the IL mean?
- Picollo talks about improving the team.
- Who gets the call to take Bubic’s place?
- Noah Cameron’s pitching demands ROY talk!
- Andrew Hoffman for Randal Grichuk.
- Hunter Harvey’s return means what?
- Is Caglianone on the IL because he’s playing OF?
Salvy’s hot! Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether Salvy getting hot is just what the doctor ordered or something that will keep the Royals from doing what they really need to do at the trade deadline?
- What’s gotten into Salvy?
- Does this make Salvy a hot trade chip?
- Do the Royals have to pick up his option for ’26?
- Latest thoughts on the Trade Deadline.
- What’s the OF rotation with Melendez back?
- How good can John Rave be?
- Shouldn’t Noah Cameron get more run for Rookie of the Year?
- Is Vinnie Pasquantino the heart and should of this team?
- How do we feel about Caglianone in the OF now?
Another series loss for the Royals in Miami. Is it finally time for the Royals to admit the playoffs aren’t happening this year and look to sell?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether there is any way to possible think this Royals team is a playoff caliber team?
- Are the playoffs officially out of reach?
- Do the Royals believe it’s over?
- Will the Royals sell?
- What does John Rave’s 2-Homer game mean?
- How to handle the 5th Starter?
- Anything left for the Royals to do to help?
The Royals start the second half by trading for Adam Frazier. Why?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) try to figure out why the Royals are bringing back Adam Frazier and more…
- Why make this deal?
- Cam Devaney will be what?
- Who’s traded next?
- The trade we want to see is…
- All Star Game reaction.
- The Royals Draft.
- Who is the fifth starter?
- Expectations for the Second Half are...
The Royals have wrapped up their 2025 MLB Draft. How did they do?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals Draft and look ahead to the second half of the season.
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Is Rany on board with the Royals Draft?
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What did KC get in Sean Gamble?
- Is Josh Hammond the best talent?
- Overpaying for Cameron Millar?
- Is drafting upside the best approach?
- Michael Lorenzen to the IL.
- Second half plan is…
Jac Caglianone hit the third longest home run of the season, which was the second homer in as many nights. Has he figured it out?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest offensive from Jac Caglianone.
- Has Jac Caglianone turned the corner?
- Is his swing too long?
- What will be the longest home run of his career?
- Sweeping the Pirates means…
- Buy or Sell at the Deadline?
- Dallas Kuechel signing means…
- Salvy’s back?
- What is Nick Loftin?
Bobby Witt Jr. and Kris Bubic were named American League All-Stars. Did the Royals deserve more?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) is in for a vacationing Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals All-Stars and much more.
- Is 2 the right number of All Stars for KC?
- What other Royals have All Star talent?
- Royals won a series… turning the corner?
- Buy or Sell?
- What would Seth Lugo bring in a trade?
- Will the Royals trade Lugo?
- MLB Draft around the corner.
Jac Caglianone has struggled to hit the ball in the air at all let alone over the wall. Is it time to send Caglianone back to the minors?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Caglianone’s situation and more.
- Is it time to send Jac Caglianone back to the minors?
- What’s best long term for Caglianone?
- Why is Jac struggling to hit the ball in the air?
- Should the Royals pay Lugo long term?
- What’s Salvy’s place in Royals history?
- Are the Royals missing chemistry?
- Carter Jensen heats up in Omaha.
The Royals have now fallen 4.5 games back in the Wild Card race and have 6 teams to jump. Is it time for the organization to admit this season is not going to be a playoff year and focus their resources on the future?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether it’s time for the Royals to waive the White Flag on the 2025 season.
- Are the playoffs officially out of reach?
- Should the Royals sell immediately?
- Rumors about the Cubs and Seth Lugo.
- What players have value if the Royals sell?
- Alec Zumwalt’s future is…
- What’s wrong with Jac Caglianone?
The Royals continue to be allergic to scoring runs and continue to seem unwilling to make any changes.
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take another shot at solving the Royals offensive problems...
- How can you not make coaching changes?
- Royals hitters are lost on the first pitch!
- Is Quatraro about to boil over?
- How do you spell waste of time? T-E-A-M M-E-E-T-I-N-G!
- Time to sell?
- Caglianone can play the Outfield!
- What to do with the roster?
This week Jac Caglianone had a two homer game at the plate and robbed a homer in the outfield.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest on Jac Caglianone and the Royals.
- Has Jac Caglianone found a home in Right Field?
- Can Matt Quatraro squeeze more out of the lineup?
- Did one day’s rest fix Salvy?
- What’s the Bullpen pecking order now?
- Should the Royals worry about rumors?
- Is it time to offer an extension to Lugo?
Is it time for the Royals to lock up Maikel Garcia to a contract extension?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the pros and cons to signing Maikel Garcia long term, plus…
- Has Maikel Garcia proven himself worthy of an extension?
- Garcia is what longterm?
- What’s the Royals record need to be to sell? Buy?
- The Royals vs. the New York Blogger.
- How much better is Salvy with rest?
- Salvy’s numbers are what at the end of the year?
- Will we see Cole Ragans again this year?
- Rays selling for $1.7B means what for the Royals?
The Royals have now lost 9 of their last 11 series. Who should be held responsible for the Royals struggles?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what’s wrong with the Royals?
- Who’s most responsible for the slide?
- Should someone be held accountable?
- What to do with Salvador Perez?
- Where and how much should Salvy play?
- Any bright spots on offense?
- Latest thoughts on Caglianone.
- Any levers left to pull?
Cole Ragans is expected to have a long stay on the IL with a Rotator Cuff Strain. Does this spell the end of any hope for the Royals making the Playoffs?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what the loss of Ragans means to the Royals and more!
- Cole Ragans to the IL. - How much does this hurt the Royals?
- In house options to replace Ragans.
- Should the Royals look for a trade?
- Time for the Royals to sell in the trade market?
- Reaction to the Yankees series.
- Is Matt Quatraro to blame?
Keith Law breaks down what he thinks of Jac Caglianone, discusses his thoughts on the current state of the Royals Farm System and looks ahead to what the Royals can achieve in the ’25 Draft.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Keith Law, The Athletic’s Sernior MLB Writer.
- What did Law think of Caglianone at UF?
- How has his opinion changed?
- Expectations for his career?
- Is Noah Cameron this good?
- Where does the Royals Farm System rank?
- What can the Royals achieve in this draft?
- After Keith, Rany & Petro talk Caglianone’s first week.
Jac Caglianone made his Major League debut, to the joy of Royals fans everywhere. So what comes next?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss all things Caglianone and more!
- Reaction to Caglianone’s debut.
- Expectations for the rest of the season with Jac.
- Where to bat Cags?
- How does the rest of the team fit around Jac?
- What a World Series Royals lineup looks like.
- Should the Royals lock up Caglianone?
- What’s the Pitching Rotation look like with Ragans back?
- Bullpen Injury concerns.
The news of Jac Caglianone's promotion to the Big Leagues breaks right at the beginning of the latest Kauffman Corner!
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it down from every angle...
- What to expect from Jac Caglianone this year?
- Could he lead the team in HR's?
- Who's out to make room for Cags?
- The 2024 Draft's not just Caglianone!
- What if Caglianone struggles?
- How much can one man help the lineup?
- What's the biggest mistake Picollo has made?
Jac Caglianone is weeks or maybe even just days away from making his debut for the Royals. How much can his bat help the Royals this year?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about the impact Caglianone can make to the Royals lineup and more.
- How much Caglianone can help this year?
- Who’s out when Jac’s in?
- What’s the upside with Noah Cameron?
- Does he need to strikeout more batters?
- Should the Royals use a 6-man rotation?
- John Rave gets his first hit.
- Do the Royals have to buy at the deadline?
Jac Caglianone… Need we say more?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the incredible numbers being posted by Jac Caglianone at Triple-A.
- How good do we think Jac Caglianone can be now?
- What is the realistic timeline for Caglianone’s big league debut?
- Does Caglianone need to fail and rebound before he’s promoted?
- Is Caglianone the only thing the Royals lineup needs?
- What does releasing Hunter Renfroe mean for the Royals?
- How much can Nick Loftin help the big league club?
- Could this be the Royals best pitching staff ever?
- Memorial Day Minor League Minute.
The Royals have been caught stealing more than almost anyone in baseball and continue to run into outs as well. What’s the problem, more importantly what’s the solution?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the base running problems of the Royals and much more…
- Why can’t the Royals run the bases?
- What should the Royals lineup look like?
- Where is Salvy right now in his career?
- Is this the real Kyle Isbel?
- Does Maikel Garcia have even more ceiling?
- Where should Jonathan India play?
- Could the Royals trade a starter?
- Thoughts on the bullpen day.
- How important is the Twins series this weekend?
The Royals bats remain ice cold and they've placed 40% of the Starting Rotation on the IL, so are they cooked?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest injuries and more...
- Ragans and Lugo hit the IL!
- KC just 3-6 in their last 9 vs. better competition.
- Noah Camron dazzles again!
- Who gets the call Wednesday in SF?
- Caglianone and Mozzicato are promoted.
- Expectations for Jonathan Bowlan are...
The Royals have struggled to score runs all season. What happened to last year’s great ability to hit with runners in scoring position?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) get to the bottom of why the Royals can’t score more runs.
- Why can’t the Royals hit with runners in scoring position?
- How has Lucas Erceg actually gotten better?
- Time to change the back of the bullpen?
- Will Kris Bubic finish in the top 5 of the Cy Young?
- What does Royals/Cardinals mean today?
The Royals take a step up in level of competition and promptly drop 2 of 3 to the Red Sox. Is this team a serious contender?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are discussing whether this team is just better than the bad teams or a real threat to win a pennant?
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Is this team a contender with this lineup?
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Can the offense improve without a trade?
- Predicting the next 6?
- Time to send down Massey?
- Freddy Fermin, the ultimate backup Quarterback.
- Do the Royals need Salvy to catch?
- How KC wins in the margins!
- Time to drop Angel Zerpa?
- The week that was Jac Caglianone.
The Royals have taken advantage of the softer schedule to pile up the wins. What’s the best case scenario for the 2025 season look like now?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the ceiling and floor for the Royals, plus…
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Best and worst case scenarios for this team are…
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How great is Cole Ragans?
- Will Ragans break the Royals single season strikeout record?
- Which core players will the Royals need to trade eventually?
- Is Maikel worth more to the Royals as a trade piece?
- Early trade targets for the Royals!
- Why is attendance so low?
Have the Royals finally started to put together a playoff caliber offense to go with their outstanding pitching?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss a historic performance in Baltimore and more.
- What happened in Baltimore?
- Where’s the confidence in Maikel Garcia now?
- Has Vinnie Pasquantino found his stroke?
- Is Michael Massey starting to get it together?
- Could Bobby Witt Jr. be even better this year?
- What’s next for Noah Cameron?
- Jac Caglianone keeps doing special things!
- Have you heard of Asbel Gonzalez?
Noah Cameron makes an impressive debut and the Royals keep winning without much offense. How long can that last?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals ability to keep winning and why.
- Noah Cameron throws 6+ shutout innings.
- Can KC survive without Ragans?
- How long can the Royals keep winning without offense?
- Bobby Witt Jr.'s streak hits 21.
- Is the Bullpen actually the best part of this team?
- Jonathan India listened to David Lesky.
- How could the Royals replace Michael Massey?
- Jac Caglianone talks hitting with MLB.com.
Are the Royals just enjoying some success against a weak part of the schedule or are they actually playing better baseball?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals recent winning ways and more.
- Recent wins... schedule driven or sign KC is a legit contender?
- Can the pitching hold up all season?
- Cole Ragans injury.
- Do we have any more clarity on the lineup now?
- The value of Bobby Witt Jr.'s hittin streak is...
- How much should we believe in Drew Waters?
- Has the ETA on Caglianone's big league debut changed?
MJ Melendez was sent down and Drew Waters almost hit for the cycle. Are the Royals fixing the offense?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking...
- Has Drew Waters figured it out?
- Melendez sent out, is Renfroe next?
- Is Maikel Garcia for real?
- How long can the Royals stick with Michael Massey?
- What's wrong with Jonathan India?
- Salvy's expected numbers tell a different story.
- When do you decide to Buy or Sell?
- Jac Caglianone bests Clayton Kershaw!
After a 2-8 road trip the Royals are asking themselves if they are a bad team or just hitting a rough patch early in the season?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether the Royals are just smarting after a rough 10-game road trip against good teams or are actually just not a good team.
- How much of the Royals slump is schedule driven?
- 16 straight vs. .500 or worse teams up next.
- Buy or sell... when is it time to decide how to proceed?
- Should we have seen the offensive problems coming?
- What could the Royals have done differently?
- Erceg leaves the game Saturday.
- Minor League Minute!
How much of the offensive blame belongs at the feet of Royals Hitting Coach Alec Zumwalt?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the role the hitting coach plays and how much he can actually affect an offense. Plus...
- Royals swept in New York... what's it mean?
- What will Bubic's final numbers look like this year?
- When to pull the plug on a struggling player?
- What it would take for KC to move on from Alec Zumwalt?
- Should the Royals have moved Lugo instead of Singer?
- How to best use Daniel Lynch?
- Earliest Jac Caglianone could earn a call to the big leagues?
Is there a solution for the Royals Offense?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether the Royals Offense can be fixed this season or is critically flawed.
- What are the possible solutions to the Royals Offense?
- Who is a lost cause?
- Any idea on what the plan is for Renfroe and Melendez?
- Do the Royals have the depth to handle their run of injuries?
- Let's take a moment to appreciate Cole Ragans.
- What's a successful road trip for this team?
- Minor League Minute.
How should the Royals go about promoting Jac Caglianone?
David Lesky (Publisher - Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), Les Norman (Former Royals OF/Author - Teaching the Tools of Hitting) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Caglianone, Pasquantino and the Royals bats.
- What's wrong with Pasquantino?
- Is the defensive rotation working?
- When is the right time to bring up Caglianone?
- How does the draft pick compensation for top prospects affect the timing?
- What's real and what's not with the Royals so far?
- Breaking down the adjustments made by Garcia and Melendez?
- Drew Waters expectations are...
What's been surprising about the 2025 Season so far?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what have been the biggest surprises and disappointments so far this 2025 season...
- Kris Bubic spins another gem!
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What we expected and what we didn't?
-
Where to worry about moving forward?
- Is it too late to find outfield help?
- Worried about the 88 win prediction already?
- Should we change the Minor League Minute to "What's Up Jac"?
We debut the second weekly edition of the Kauffman Corner Podcast.
David Lesky, Publisher of the Inside the Crown Royals Newsletter and Les Norman, Former Royals Outfielder, Host of Breakin' the Norm on Sports Radio 810 and Author of "Teaching the Tools of Hitting" join Soren Petro to discuss the Kansas City Royals...
- Early reaction to the Royals (2-4) start?
- Do the Royals stick with MJ Melendez?
- How long does it take to perfect a new swing?
- Will Hunter Renfroe get it going?
- What options do the Royals have in the OF?
- Is the Torpedo Bat legit or a myth?
- AL Central... bad division or just a slow start?
- What's the ceiling for Kris Bubic?
- Expectations for the 7 game home stand.
After completing the opening series of the season, what are the biggest takeaways?
David Lesky (Inside the Crown/@DBLesky), pinch hitting for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli), and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals beginning to the 2025 season...
- Should we worry about the Starting Pitching?
- Is Bobby Witt Jr. going to continue to start slow?
- Has Quatraro used the bullpen properly?
- What to think of the constant lineup shuffles?
- How's India look in Left Field?
- Are the Royals getting quality at bats?
- The Royals continue to die hard.
- What to make of the new "Torpedo Bats"?
- The schedule ahead.
The Royals grab Mark Canha for depth in the outfield and make some final cuts. So what's the 26-man roster going to look like on opening day?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the roster and getting you ready for Opening Day.
- What does Mark Canha bring to the Royals?
- How will Canha be used?
- Did the Royals make the right call moving on from Carlos Hernandez?
- Vinnie Pasquantino puls a hamstring.
- Final projections for the Royals Opening Day Roster.
- How the Royals Schedule shapes up to start the season?
- Bold and Daring predictions for the '25 season!
With the Major League Season less than two weeks away it's time to figure out who on the 2025 Royals will shine and who won't.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Bobby Witt Jr. avoiding serious injury, Alex Gordon getting into the Royals Hall of Fame and make their predictions for the upcoming season...
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Bobby Witt Jr. avoids serious injury and so do the Royals.
-
Alex Gordon makes the Royals Hall of Fame.
- Predictions for the 2025 Season...
- Player of the Year.
- Pitcher of the Year.
- Breakout Player.
- Breakout Pitcher.
- Biggest Disappointment.
- Best position player not named Bobby Witt Jr.
- Best pitcher not named Cole Ragans.
- Best Reliever.
- Biggest impact rookie.
- Top prospect at the end of the year.
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- Key story line for the 2025 season.
Jac Caglianone is making Spring Training his own personal stage... Is there any reason to slow down the hype train?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the show of power being put on by Caglianone this spring, plus...
- Jac Caglianone living up to the hype and more!
- The outfield could speed Calianone's timeline to the bigs.
- Ranking the Royals Top 5 Rookie of the Year candidates.
- Are there any sleepers?
- The Royals top 5 MVP candidates.
- The Royals top 5 Cy Young candidates.
Should the Royals still be looking to add to the club? Who is standing out?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest on the Royals Spring Training...
- Should the Royals still be looking to add to the club?
- What are the most notable takeaways from Spring Training so far?
- How is the bench shaping up?
- Can we read anything into who is playing where?
- Who is the Royals biggest threat in the AL Central?
- Which AL Central team has the biggest upside?
We have games in Arizona, so why not over-react to a handful of At Bats and Innings.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the early returns from Spring Training and more...
- Melendez goes 0-2 with a couple strikeouts.
- Caglianone and Jensen homer!
- Carlos Henandez knocked around.
- Noah Cameron shows increased velocity.
- Daniel Lynch impresses.
- Are we sleeping on Gentry and Loftin?
- Blake Mitchell out 4-6 Weeks.
- Why not Alexander Canairo?
- Is the NHL's 4 Nations the answer for baseball?
Taking a crack at what the 26-man roster will look like when the Royals break Spring Training.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what the Royals will look like for Opening Day. Plus...
- J.J. Picollo is extended through 2030.
- Matt Quatraro's option for '26 is picked up.
- Cole Ragans gets an extension... kind of?
- The 26-man roster will be...
- Only a couple questions with the position players.
- The Rotation is easy.
- Questions in the bullpen.
Dan Szymborski of FanGraphs wrote that the Royals missed an opportunity with their outfield this offseason.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether the Royals could have done more and if they get the credit they deserve for the success they achieved last season.
- Were Lugo and Wacha really a "low-key" acquisitions?
- Were the Royals just lucky in 2024?
- Do the Royals have answers in-house?
- KC getting enough credit for the Jonathan India trade?
- Should KC have done whatever it takes for Santander?
- Fair to compare Royals with Witt Jr. to the Angels and Trout?
- Any Free Agents left for KC to target?
If you are going to win in the big leagues you have to be able to pitch. The Royals proved that with their playoff run last year. For a small market team developing pitching is a must. Paul Gibson, the Sr. Director of Pitching Performance for the Kansas City Royals joins us to discuss KC's pitching development.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk to Gibson about...
- What goes into Gibson's job?
- Communicating with the pitchers in the organization.
- Promoting pitchers that haven't put up big numbers yet.
- Alec Marsh's development.
- When and how to move starters back to the bullpen.
- Daniel Lynch's conversion to the bullpen.
- Teaching velocity.
- Working with outside pitching academies.
- David Shields
- Ben Kudrna
- Pitching more innings.
- Developing pitching in Latin America.
- Young pitching in the system from Latin America.
- Asa Lacy
- Carlos Estevez
The Free Agent market is drying up quickly. What can the Royals still get done before heading to Arizona for Spring Training?
Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) and David Lesky (Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) pinch hitting for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) discuss if the Royals can still find help on the market, plus...
- Where to turn if there's not a bat?
- Could Kris Bubic be the key?
- Can the Royals still add to the bullpen?
- Where does Jonathan India play?
-
How optimistic are we about Melendez's new swing?
-
How does the outfield fit together right now?
- Is there help in the system?
- What kind of win total are we feeling?
After a playoff season in '24, what's the best and worst the '25 season can be?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what it will take for the Royals to actually take a step forward from the massive step they took last season and what could go wrong if the season heads South.
BEST CASE
- MJ Melendez breaks out!
- Michael Massey hits 30 HR's.
- Joey Wiemer becomes an everyday player.
- Vinnie Pasquantino raps out 50 doubles.
- Maikel Garcia's bat takes a step up.
- Royals acquire an everyday OF at the deadline.
- The bullpen gets a boost.
- Kris Bubic becomes a #2 SP.
WORST CASE
- Injuries rob the Royals of Bobby Witt Jr. or Cole Ragans.
- Who plays CF if Isbel gets hurt or can't hit?
- Jonathan India doesn't work out.
- Salvy gets old.
- Lack of bullpen depth.
- Vinnie gets hurt.
Royals First Baseman Vinnie Pasquantino joins the Pod to discuss the Royals run to the Playoffs, his incredible recovery from a late thumb injury and how much he uses analytics to play the game.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk with Vinnie...
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Coming back from the late season thumb injury.
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What Vinnie’s offseason workouts look like.
- Defensive numbers at first.
- How to use analytics.
- Evaluating his 2024 season.
- Taking struggles personally!
- Pressure of the “Pasquatch”!
- Being a Jets Fan.
- It's OK... the Chiefs are his 2nd favorite team
Fueled by some unexpected seasons from their core player the Royals were the American League’s biggest surprise. Looking ahead to 2025 which Pitchers can the Royals expect to be better and which should they expect to be worse?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) breakdown the core arms for the 2025 Royals after they discuss the Royals re-upping with Michael Lorenzen.
- Michael Lorenzon signs back with the Royals?
- Where does he fit best?
- Better or Worse
- Michael Lorenzen
- Cole Ragans
- Seth Lugo
- Michael Wacha
- Kris Bubic
- Alec Marsh
- Daniel Lynch
- Lucas Erceg
Fueled by some unexpected seasons from their core player the Royals were the American League’s biggest surprise. Looking ahead to 2025 which offensive players can the Royals expect to be better and which should they expect to be worse?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) breakdown the core offensive players...
- Salvador Perez
- Freddy Fermin
- Vinnie Paquantino
- Michael Massey
- Maikel Garcia
- Bobby Witt Jr.
- MJ Melendez
- Kyle Isbel
- Hunter Renfroe
- Jonathan India
The rebuilding of the Royals Pitching Staff in 2024 was nothing short of remarkable. Royals Pitching Coach Brian Sweeney discusses the thoughrts and processes behind building a top shelf pitching program.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about how the pitching staff came together and how the Royals will progress moving forward...
- How the 2024 Royals Pitching Staff came together.
- What went into Sweeney taking the PItching Coach job?
- Sweeney's core philosophy.
- Building trust with the pitchers.
- The building of Cole Ragans.
- Why the Royals wanted Seth Lugo so bad.
- Adding the slider to Michael Wacha's repetoire.
- Pitchers working with outside Pitching Instructors.
- Importance of being on the cutting edge of technology.
- How to switch a pitchers roles?
- Avoiding injuries.
- Reacting to Brian Sweeney's comments.
The Royals Hall of Fame Ballots are out. There's a long list of players with ties to the 2014/2015 World Series teams. Who measures up?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are discussing the latest candidates for the Royals Hall of Fame as well as who should the Royals be looking at giving a long term contract to.
- Which player or players should the Royals be looking to lock up?
- Who is on Petro's Royals HOF ballot?
- Who would Rany vote for?
- Which player was the toughest cut?
- What player just makes the cut?
Juan Soto has reset the Major League Baseball's salary structure with his 15-year $765-million deal. What does it mean for the Kansas City Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss how the Soto contract affects the Royals.
- What does this deal mean for all of baseball?
- How this deal affects the Royals in Free Agency.
- Will this deal impact Cody Bellinger's trade value?
- O'Neil/Holmes/Conforto are all off the board for KC.
- Where should the Royals look now?
- World Series Odds for the Royals, what do they mean?
- Do the Royals make a Rule 5 selection?
- Rany reacts to the fall of the brutal dictator in his family's native Syria.
MLB handed out their 2024 Awards and a number of Royals were prominently featured.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the recognition the Royals did and didn't receive. Plus what should the Royals do next this offseason?
- Did they get the awards right?
- How does a 30 win improvement not equal Executive of the Year?
- What else could Quatraro have done?
- Should we expect bobby Witt Jr. to win the MVP at some point?
- What kind of awards are on the horizon for the Royals?
- What free agent should the Royals make now?
- What trade should the Royals make at the Winter Meetings?
It didn't take long for the rumors about the Royals trading Brady Singer to become true. How did the Royals do on the trade?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) breakdown the Singer for India and Wiemer trade.
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Did the Royals get enough for Singer?
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Where will Jonathan India play?
- What does Joey Wiemer bring to the Royals?
- The numbers for India/Wiemer will look like what?
- What makes this trade a success?
- Who takes Singer's spot in the rotation?
- The next move for the Royals should be...
The Royals improved their win total by 30 games... what role did analytics play in the Royals run to the playoffs?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Royals Vice President - Assistant General Manager/Research & Development, Daniel Mack to the Pod.
- What role did analytics play in signing Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha?
- How do the Royals handle their pitchers?
- Do the Royals value OBP?
- How can analytics guide the Royals through this offseason?
- What do the numbers say about Jac Caglianone?
-
How analytics helped Bobby Witt Jr.?
-
Rumors have the Royals talking Singer for India.
Speaking at the GM Meetings, J.J. Picollo gave some idea of how the Royals view their team moving forward and what they are looking for.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the Picollo comments and more...
- Bubic is a starter?
- Lynch could be a starter?
- Singer's locked in the rotation.
- Where will the Royals find OBP?
- Shopping Bubic and Marsh?
- Jac Caglianone scalding baseballs!
The Royals lock up Michael Wacha on a 3-year $72-million deal.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals resigning of Wacha and...
- Bobby Witt Jr. and Seth Lugo grab Gold Gloves!
- Michael Wacha stays in KC.
- Is Wacha worth 3-$72M?
- Are the Royals now more likely to trade a Starting Pitcher?
- Who should KC target in Free Agency?
- Is there a trade that makes sense for the Royals?
Reviewing the Royals 2024 Minor League season.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) look back at the Royals 2024 Minor Leagues.
- 2024 Minor League recap.
- Surprises.
- Disappointments.
- Our top 12 prospects.
- Who can help the 2025 Royals?
How did we do on our preseason Royals predictions?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a look back at what they thought this season would be and why. How did we do on our Bold & Daring Predictions and did we get the awards winners correct? Plus...
- What to do with the impending FA's?
- How to handle Michael Wacha?
- Who are the two players the Royals should look at trading and why?
- What should they target in return?
One of the most surprising and enjoyable seasons in Royals history comes to an end in the American League Division Series.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) put a bow on the 2024 Royals Season...
- Why did the Royals come up short vs. the Yankees?
-
Where can the Royals get better?
-
Kevin Seitzer is available.
- How about a walk?
- What needs to change?
- What's the future of the Royals on TV in KC?
Giancarlo Stanton proves to be too much for the Royals.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) bring on friend of the Pod, Joe Sheehan (Joe Sheehan MLB Newsletter) to break down the Royals Game 3 loss to the Yankees.
- Did the Yankees win because of their payroll?
- Lugo not sharp. - Royals pitchers walk 9.
- Stanton proves to be too much!
- Royals can’t get the clutch hit.
- What to expect in Game 4?
A back and forth Game 1 of the ALDS goes to the Yankees.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals 6-5 loss in the Bronx.
- What happened last night?
- Where was the bullpen?
- Did the umpires rob the Royals of a win?
-
Anything Quatraro got wrong?
-
What should the Royals do differently in Game 2?
- Should the Royals stick with the same lineup?
- How much does the legacy of this season ride on this series?
The Royals are moving on to New York and the American League Division Series with the Yankees.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals Game 2 Wild Card win over the Orioles.
- Seth Lugo only goes 4+, but only gives up 1 run.
- The bullpen continues to dominate.
- Offense is still missing.
- Bobby Witt Jr. comes up clutch again!
- Can KC beat the Yankees scoring only two runs?
- How should the Royals lineup their starters?
- What to expect from the Yankees?
Breaking down the Royals win over the Orioles.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down how the Royals won Game 1 of the AL Wild Card.
- Cole Ragans dominates for 6 innings.
- Royals offense nets just one run.
- Vinnie Pasquantino is back.
- Was Massey leading off the right call?
- Bobby Witt comes through with the game winning RBI.
- 3 shutout innings from the bullpen.
- Maikel Garcia comes up big.
- Erceg slams the door!
- Thoughts on Game 2.
How did the Royals pull off this unbelievable turnaround season?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss how the Royals were able to clinch a spot in the playoffs. Plus...
- What were the keys to this season?
- What happened to the offense in September?
- Can Vinnie Pasquantino return?
- How much of a difference would Vinnie make?
- What should the playoff roster look like?
- What are the most important matchups in the series with the Orioles?
Could this have actually been the worst week ever for the Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down just where this winless week belongs in Royals history. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- How much of the offensive problem is just no Vinnie?
- Measuring the reaming schedules for the contenders.
- How many wins will it take to make the playoffs?
- Are there any personnel moves left to make?
- Rany's "Pep Talk" for the final week!
With the MLB Playoffs now all but a lock for the Royals, it's time to start looking at how they shape up for the postseason.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are discussing...
- Can anything stop the Royals from getting to the playoffs now?
- What does the Playoff Bullpen look like?
- Who are your Playoff Starting Pitchers?
- Is this team built for the Playoffs?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of this club?
- Will Quatraro win Manager of the Year?
- Is PIcollo headed toward Executive of the Year?
Does a sweep of the Minnesota Twins mean the Royals are a lock for the playoffs?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals and their playoff chances. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Rany has a new comp for this Royals team.
- Is the Starting Pitching getting its second wind?
- How much confidence is there in the bullpen now?
- Can the Royals win in the Post-Season without Vinnie?
- Rany's thoughts on the Waiver Claims.
Even after getting swept in Houston the Royals are still barreling towards the playoffs.
David Lesky (Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) pinch hitting for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals playoff chances after making even more moves before the September 1 roster deadline.
- What did the Royals get in Pham, Grossman and Gurriel?
- Disaster in Houston.
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- How much will the Royals miss Pasquantino?
- Taking a closer look at Quatraro's managing.
- Can the starting rotation find a second wind?
- Is the bullpen good enough?
The rosters expand to 28 this week. What players should the Royals be considering for the call ups?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what minor leaguers can help the Royals make their final push for the playoffs. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter
- The 3-3 week that was.
- KC goes 1-2 vs the Phillies, what to expect for the next 17 games?
- How should the Royals use Tyler Gentry?
- Bobby Witt Jr. vs. Aaron Jude for the MVP.
- What would a Royals Playoff Roster look like?
- How many pitchers? Hitters?
- Salvy plays a little pick up game with the kids!
Rany is ready to admit he was wrong about JJ Picollo the way only Rany Jazayerli can.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) also discuss...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- The Witt Minute.
- The Royals crushing the Reds.
- Where did this Dairon Blanco come from?
- Brady Singer bounces back.
- Rany admits he was wrong about Picollo.
The Royals bullpen continues to have issues.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the bullpen issues and how Matt Quatraro is using it.
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Bobby Witt Jr. continues to pile up the stats.
- Can the Royals win with only 2 reliable relievers?
- How does Quatraro need to change down the stretch?
- Huge series at the Twins up next.
The Royals added three arms and a bat before the Trade Deadline. Did they get it right? Will it be enough to make the playoffs? Which trade makes the biggest impact?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals trades for Lucas Erceg, Paul Dejong, Michael Lorenzen and Hunter Harvey. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Putting Bobby Witt's incredible July into perspective.
- Freddy Fermin to the leadoff spot?
- How the AL contenders schedules shape up.
- The week ahead for the Royals.
How do the last 365 days of Bobby Witt Jr.'s career shape up against the best years in Royals history?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what Witt has done over the last year and decide whether this is the best 12 months of baseball any Royal has ever put on the field. Plus...
-
Playoff Optimism Meter.
-
Is the bullpen fixable?
- Can anyone succeed in the leadoff role? Massey?
- Did the Royals miss on a player that's already been traded?
- Trade Deadline wish list.
How strong is Bobby Witt Jr.'s case for the MVP?
Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) and David Lesky (Inside the Crown, InsidetheCrown.Substack.com/@DBLesky) in for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) discuss the case for Bobby Witt Jr. to the AL MVP this year. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Royals sweep the White Sox.
- Predictions on what the second half will look like.
- Gone... Jordan Lyles.
- How to handle the innings load on the Starting Pitching.
- Trade Deadline targets.
The Royals made Florida first baseman Jac Caglianone their pick at #6 in the 2024 MLB Draft. What type of expectations should there be?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Caglianone and the rest of the Royals draft. Plus...
- Bobby Witt Jr. comes up inches short in the HR Derby.
- First Half Review.
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- What does the selection of Caglianone say about the Royals philosophy?
- Should Caglianone be a "Two Way" player?
- Upside/Downside for Caglianone.
- Royals grab plenty of college arms.
- Hunter Harvey Trade.
Four All-Stars... but the Royals are on the outside looking in for the playoffs.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the joy of Kansas City getting 4 All-Stars and the disappointment of a (2-4) week against the Rays and Rockies.
- What does 4 All-Stars mean for the Royals?
- Salvador Perez collects his 1,500th hit. HOF?
- Is Brady Singer elite?
- Kris Bubic is back. What's his best role?
- Maikel Garcia's OPS is hovering just over .600.
- Big series looking with the Red Sox.
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
Bobby Witt Jr. has been outstanding all season. Just how good is he and how great can he be?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk all things Bobby Witt Jr. and...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Lugo continues to pitch like an Ace.
- Garcia making the move to 2B, Loftin to 3B.
- Bubic to the bullpen.
- Royals HOF welcomes Bo, Schuerholz and Tallis.
- Expectations for the week ahead and to the All-Star Break.
After dropping 5 of 6 and being swept by the struggling Rangers, will the Royals ever get back to holding a Playoff Spot in the standings?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about what it means to have a losing series against the A's and be swept by the Rangers. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Compare and contrast 2024 and 2003.
- How can the Front Office thurn things around?
- What should the plan be at the Trade Deadline? Buy or Sell?
- 3 Games with Miami and 4 with Cleveland this week. Predictions?
The Royals are one of three teams said to be looking at making a deal for Chicago reliever Michael Kopech.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a closer look at the hard throwing White Sox Closer and determine whether the Royals should make a deal for him. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Royals go (7-12) in their last 19 games vs. winning teams.
- Breaking down the top of the 2024 MLB Draft.
- Analyzing how the Royals have handled injuries.
- What is Brady Singer and what can he become?
The Royals finished the week going 3-2 in five games against first place clubs. Does this put to rest the question of whether the Royals are in it for the duration?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what to make of the Royals success this week, plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter
- Can this be a Playoff Bullpen?
- Veterans are rebounding from slow starts.
- Royals sticking with M.J. Melendez.
-
Cole Ragans the Ace.
-
Daniel Lynch struggles but battles.
- The Yankees are coming.
How should the Royals approach the Trade Deadline?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss if the Royals should be looking for quality or quantity on the trade market. Plus...
- J.J. Picollo comments on the trade market.
-
What do the Royals have to trade?
-
Playoff Optimism Meter.
- Was Sunday the win of the year?
- How do you replace Michael Wacha?
- Who to call up if Isbel has to be replaced?
Who is really the Royals biggest threat. The preseason favorite Twins or the Red Hot Guardians?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss whether Minnesota or Cleveland is better built for the long haul. Plus...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- What's the value of an 8 game win streak?
- Has Perez become a fundamentally better hitter at age 34?
- What's wrong with Pasquantino?
- How big is the loss of Massey?
- Goodbye Angel Hernandez!
So far statistically this Royals Rotation is doing things that have never been done in franchise history. So is it the best Royals Rotation ever?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals Rotation and where it stacks up historically, as well as...
- Playoff Optimism Meter.
- What teams are threats to the Royals?
- Time to give up on having a quality OF?
- Kris Bubic timeline.
- Do the Royals actually have pitching depth?
- What kind of trades are possible?
- How do the '24 Royals compare to the '14 AL Champions?
- Remembering the 2014 team.
If you're going to talk about an Ace in the Royals rotation... it's time to start talking about Seth Lugo as that man.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome David Lesky (Inside the Crown/@DBLesky) to pinch hit for Petro and discuss the recent dominance of Seth Lugo and more.
- How good can Seth Lugo be?
- Is this going to be a historic season for Bobby Witt Jr.?
- Of course there'll be a check of the Playoff Optimism Meter.
- How deep is the rotation now and how deep will it be?
- Can Dairon Blanco be one of the answers in the OF?
- What's the plan with Renfroe/Frazier/Hampson?
Is it possible to be lucky and unlucky at the same time?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking about the Royals 3-3 week against quality teams in the Blue Jays and Rangers.
- Where are the Royals defying the numbers... good and bad?
- What's the Playoff Optimism Meter look like?
- Is it time to make some roster changes?
- When is it OK to cut bate with struggling veterans?
- What to make of Daniel Lynch's start?
- The worst hitting outfield in baseball.
After another winning week it's time to check the Playoff Optimism Meter.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) dive into a 4-3 week that still has the Royals holding down a Wild Card spot in the standings.
- Why are the Royals continuing to win against good teams?
- Royals depth is tested.
- What to expect from Jonathan Bowlan this time around?
- Father Time's got nothing on Salvy.
- Minor League Catchers = OBP Machines.
Maikel Garcia is OPS'ing .560 in the leadoff and the bottom of the order is no better. Is there an in-house fix for the lineup?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about what the Royals can do to fix a so many holes in their batting order. Plus...
- The debut of the Playoff Optimism Meter.
- The mighty Cole Ragans lasts less than 2 innings.
- Royals are (1-2) to start 19 straight against winning teams.
Does one lost series to the Mets require Royals fans to again ask themselves if this team is a legit contender in the AL Central or have the Royals done enough to eliminate that concern?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what it will take for Royals fans to quit worrying about a fall from grace. Plus...
- Level of confidence in the bullpen?
- How good is Seth Lugo?
- Salvador Perez injury.
- Are the Royals equipped to handle injuries?
- What's the delay getting Massey back to the big leagues?
- Are the Royals deep enough?
- Expectations for the next 21 games vs. mostly tougher opponents.
Juiced by a historically good start from the Rotation, the Royals are playing .600 ball! Can they really be this good?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the first three series of the Royals season.
- When was the last time the Royals were 2 games over .500?
- Just how good has the Royals rotation actually been?
- Where Bobby Witt Jr. fits in the MVP talks?
- Is there still room for improvement?
- What's going on in the minors?
- Reaction to the Royals Stadium vote going down to defeat.
With the Stadium Vote a couple days away Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star Columnist joins the Pod to discuss what all is at stake.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals opening weekend and then welcome McDowell to talk...
- Will the vote pass?
- Why has there been such a rush to get this passed?
- Which team's plan is more popular with voters?
- Beyond the teams, who benefits the most?
- What's next if the vote fails?
With Opening Day just a few days away it's time for Rany and Petro to make their predictions for the 2024 Royals.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) layout how the 2024 season will go...
- Player of the Year
- Pitcher of the Year
- Best Player not named Bobby Witt Jr.
- Best Pitcher not named Cole Ragans.
- Top Reliever. - Biggest Impact Rookie.
- Top Prospect at the End of the Year.
- Breakout Player.
- Biggest Disappointment.
With less than two weeks left before Opening Day, how is the Royals Roster taking shape? Is it shaping up as expected? And did the Royals Veterans Committee get it right inducting 3 new members to the Royals Hall of Fame.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a look at...
- What's the latest on the position battles?
- Who's in Center? Who's at Second?
- Who's the 5th Starter?
- How is the bullpen shaping up?
- What's the best bench look like?
- Are there any surprises looming?
- Bo Jackson, John Schuerholz and Cedric Tallis are voted in.
ESPN MLB Writer & Analyst Bradford Doolittle recently released his "Stock Watch" for all 30 MLB Teams. After a buys offseason are the Royals a must buy stock?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Doolittle to the Pod to breakdown the Royals offseason and his expectations for 2024.
- Can Cole Ragans continue what he did in 2023?
- Where do the Royals rank among the AL Central?
- Did KC get value with its offseason shopping spree?
- What kind of playoff chances do the Royals have?
- How much improvement should be expected from the young players?
It's been mostly Worst Case for the Royals the last few years... So what does the Floor and the Ceiling look like for the 2024 Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the good and the bad possibilities for the 2024 Royals. Plus...
- Cole Ragans is consistently hitting 100 mph.
- Brady Singer's got a new pitch.
- Alec Marsh is looking strong.
- MJ Melendez is hitting.
- So is Maikel Garcia.
After spending a week at Royals Spring Training it's time to discuss what Petro learned in Surprise, AZ. Last week Rany and Petro discussed the 5 things they each wanted to see in the Spring. How's it look?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what Petro learned in AZ...
- Is Vinnie Pasquantino getting a contract extension?
- Will Vinnie play first?
- Is Maikel Garcia going to lift the ball more?
- Has anyone seen Asa Lacy?
- Can Gavin Cross recapture his form?
- How is Kris Bubic progressing?
- Frank Mozzicato throw strikes?
- Will the platoon be used more?
- Does anyone move Jordan Lyles out of the rotation?
Spring Training has opened and the Royals are still making trades. What should we think of the Sandlin for Schreiber trade and what are the 5 things Rany and Soren want to see in Spring Training?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a look at the positives and negatives of the Royals acquiring John Schreiber as well as...
- What do we want from Vinnie Pasquantino?
- Will we see Asa Lacy ever again?
- Can Frank Mozzicato throw strikes?
- Can Gavin Cross bounce back?
- Will Maikel Garcia hit the ball in the air?
- Does Hunter Renfroe still have it?
- What can we expect from Kris Bubic? Daniel Lynch?
- How to handle M.J. Melendez?
The Kansas City Royals splashed around money in free agency to improve the current team, but if the Farm System can’t start supplying more young talent the free agents will be a blip on a losing radar screen. Jeffrey Paternostro, the Lead Prospect Writer for Baseball Prospectus joins the Pod to talk about where the Royals system is now.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals System…
- Who’s the top prospect?
- How deep is the system?
- Is there a sleeper prospect flying under the radar?
- What do the Royals need to do differently?
- Are the Royals changing the way they develop pitching?
- Why aren't the Royals succeeding with International players?
The Royals locked up Bobby Witt Jr. with the largest contract in club history and that calls for an "Emergency Podcast".
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) breakdown the record setting deal...
- How long is the contract for really?
- Comps for the deal.
- What are the expectations for Witt?
- What makes the contract a success?
Is a contract extension for Bobby Witt Jr. going to get done before the Royals head to Arizona for Spring Training? Speculation continues to swirl around whether the two sides are closing in on a deal.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what goes into gettin an extension done with Bobby Witt Jr. and what's at stake if the Royals don't. Plus...
- Is there a deadline to get a deal done?
- Is the Royals roster set?
- What do we want to see in Spring Training ?
- How many wins are the Royals expecting in '24?
- Who can break out?
- Who flops?
ESPN's MLB Insider, Jeff Passan joins us to discuss the Royals offseason.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the offseason moves by the Royals and look ahead to Spring Trainging.
- Do the Royals believe they can contend in 2024?
- Does Passan think KC can contend in the AL Central?
- Will the Royals get a deal done with Bobby Witt Jr.?
- Should they get a deal done with Witt?
- Where is the Royals Farm System?
- Reaction to the Royals Front Office additions.
- Thoughts on a new ballpark for the Royals.
What does Joe Sheehan from the Joe Sheehan MLB Newsletter think of what the Royals have done this offseason?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Joe to discuss the Royals very busy offseason on the field and in the front office.
- Did the Royals do enough to contend in '24?
- If not this year, when can they contend?
- Did the Royals get good value for the money spent?
- What else should the Royals be doing?
- Reaction to the Royals Front Office additions.
- What does a Bobby Witt Jr. contract look like?
- Does Joe agree with the Royals building a new stadium?
What kind of expectations should there be for the 2024 Kansas City Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what the new look Royals are capable of...
-Is this the best rotation in the Al Central?
- How much power will this lineup have?
- Do the Royals have enough bullpen?
- Can they compete for a Division Championship?
- Thoughts on the Non-Roster Invitees to Spring Training.
The Royals continue to add to their front office with the hiring of Johnny DiPuglia as Special Assistant of International Scouting and Fred Guerrero as Coordinator of Player Evaluation. What does this mean for the Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the accomplishments of DiPuglia and Guerrero and discuss where they can make an impact on the Royals. Plus...
- How much has a lack of Latin American talent hurt the Royals?
- How long will it take to see the results of the front office changes?
- What do the Royals still need to get done before Spring Training?
- Royals and Chiefs released a statement regarding their stadium plans.
- The simulation has been run, who drafted the better all-time Royals team?
Part Two of the epic clash between Jazayerli and Petro as they go head to head drafting their All-Time Royals Rosters.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are picking from the best individual player seasons in Royals History.
- What mistakes did the guys make?
- How do the players of today compare to the players from the past?
- Where did your favorite Royals player get drafted?
- What top players didn't make the cut?
- Which Royals seasons weren't good enough to make the cut?
The Rules. Only one season of a player's career can be drafted. For example... if 2015 Lorenzo Cain is drafted, no other season of Cain's career can be selected. Also, no other player from the 2015 season can be drafted either. Jazayerli and Petro are each drafting a full 26-man roster, so there will be one player selected from 52 of the Royals 55 seasons.
What would a draft of the best Player Seasons in Royals history look like? But wait, it's not as easy as you might think.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) went head to head drafting the best players in Royals History.
- Where did your favorite Royals player get drafted?
- What top players didn't make the cut?
- Which Royals seasons weren't good enough to make the cut?
The Rules. Only one season of a player's career can be drafted. For example... if 1985 George Brett is drafted, no other season of George Brett's can be selected. Also, no other player from the 1985 season can be drafted either. Jazayerli and Petro are each drafting a full 26-man roster, so there will be one player drafted from 52 of the Royals 55 seasons.
The Royals have spent more than $100-million this off-season. Is it enough to make them a contender?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the Royals Free Agent additions from every angle.
- Is Seth Lugo worth three years?
- How does Chris Stratton fit into the bullpen?
- Will Michael Wacha prove to be a steal?
- Does Hunter Renfroe get on base enough?
- What else do the Royals need?
- Could the Royals be the favorite in the AL Central?
This week the Royals added Will Smith to the back of their bullpen. It's a start. When, and how, do the Royals get to addressing the two starting pitchers and middle of the order bat they also wanted to add?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down...
- How will the Royals employ Smith?
- What else does the bullpen need?
- Which SP's are the Royals rumored to be looking into?
- Can the Royals afford a Stroman or Giolito?
- Is there a major trade looming?
- Does a legit bat fit their budget?
- What does the Shohei Ohtani contract mean for baseball and the Royals?
What have the Royals accomplished at the Winter Meetings, and more importantly what should they accomplish?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down how the Winter Meetings need to be handled by the Royals. - What must the Royals get done at the Winter Meetings?
- How important is the Draft Lottery to the Royals?
- Tyler Gentry and Will Klein were added to the 40-Man Roster.
- Should KC make a Rule 5 selection?
- What are the Royals getting with the signing of Garrett Hampson?
- Who will be affected most by Hampson's signing?
- The Royals hired Joe Dillon as assistant hitting coach.
- What one player can make the biggest jump for the Royals in '24?
Featured in one of the most iconic baseball books ever written before he even played a game in the big leagues, traded for a future Hall of Famer and wrapping up his career in Italy, Mark Teahen had one of the more unique careers in baseball history.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) welcome Mark Teahen to the podcast to discuss...
- What was it like being featured in the book Moneyball?
- How different were the the A's and Royals organizations?
- Which hitters made the biggest impression on Mark?
- Why did the Royals think he could play second base?
- What was it like to play with Zack Greinke?
- How is the wine business in Arizona?
The Royals called 2023 an "Evaluation Year". So what are the conclusions the Royals should reach about the young players they were evaluating this season?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down their conclusions for the young position players and pitchers the Royals ran out on the field this year.
- Is Bobby Witt Jr. a future MVP?
- Can Cole Ragans win a Cy Young?
- Is there another arm that can be counted on to start?
- How many starting position players are on this roster?
- Who could be a factor as a platoon player?
- Kyle Wright/Jackson Kowar Trade analysis.
Where should the Royals be looking in Free Agency this offseason?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what options the Royals should be looking at and how they should proceed. Each of them has selected three players from different levels of the Free Agent Market they would like to see the Royals pursue.
- Who did Rany choose? Who did Soren choose?
- What starting pitchers are within their budget?
- Is there a bat that fits?
- What is the dream scenario for the Royals?
- What do we think the Royals will actually get done in Free Agency?
Kauffman Corner welcomes Daniel Mack, the Vice President and Assistant General Manager for Research and Development with the Kansas City Royals to the Pod this week.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) pull back the curtain on the man behind the Royals analytics department.
- What’s his background?
- What goes into his job?
- How much has analytics changed over the years?
- Are the Royals focused enough on OBP?
- Where have the Royals made the biggest strides?
- How KC uses analytics in the Draft? Free Agency?
- Where are baseball analytics going?
Texas and Arizona are battling in the World Series. What can the Royals learn from these two teams?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what the Royals should be taking away from the success of the Rangers and Diamondbacks.
- How much of the D-Backs were built in the draft?
- Can the Royals spend like the Rangers?
- How important is Starting Pitching?
- What impact did the managers have?
- Do the Royals need to hit the ball over the wall more?
- Is the ballpark a thing?
After another disappointing season at the big league level, but what do the Kansas City Royals have working at the minor league level?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what the top prospects in the Royals organization look like.
- Who are the top prospects in the system?
- Is it good enough?
- Rany and Soren break down their top 12 prospects in the system.
- Also what does Jin Wong's departure from the organization's front office mean?
What does a long term contract for Bobby Witt Jr. with the Royals look like?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what it will take to keep Witt in a Royals uniform long term from every angle...
- What will Witt want?
- How long should it be?
- What do the Royals want?
- Is there a no trade clause?
- How much would it take?
- Will it actually get done?
- Should it get done?
- What grade does Matt Quatraro get for season 1?
With the season over it's time to grade the first season of J.J. Picollo as General Manager.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) hand out their letter grade for the job Picollo did in 2023. They discuss Picollo's...
- Roster Construction.
- Trades.
- Draft.
- Minor League System.
- Hirings and Firings.
- What does it all mean for the future of the Royals?
The season has mercifully come to an end for the 2023 Royals. So what do royals fans need to be wishing for this offseason?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) give their offseason wish list and...
- What are Rany's three wishes for the offseason?
- What are Soren's three wishes?
- What can the Royals learn from the 12 teams that made the playoffs?
- Have we seen the last of Zack Greinke?
The Royals shook up the front office this week. Did they get it right? Did they do enough? Is it all fixed?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about the addition of Brian Bridges as the Scouting Director, and...
- Bridges is in, but no one is out. Is that a mistake?
- How long will it take for Bridges to make an impact?
- Has there been enough development in the system this season?
- What have the Royals done with James McArthur?
- Bobby Witt's quest for 30/50 continues.
- Two more homers for Nelson Velazquez.
- Brady Singer hits the IL.
Bobby Witt Jr. is closing in on some hallowed offensive numbers this season. So what does a 30/50 (Homers/Stolen Bases) season mean?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Rany's weekend trip to Kauffman Stadium to check out the Royals first hand. Plus...
- What company would Witt keep in the 30/50 Club?
- Does this guarantee a Hall of Fame career?
- What are the odds this is his best season?
- Is Zack Greinke a Hall of Famer?
- How does Zack's career stack up?
Before the season both Rany and Soren predicted 77 wins for the Royals this year. Right now the Royals are on pace for just 50 wins. Why?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss why they were so off on their predictions...
- First, Cole Ragans turns into the "Wild Thing". Concern?
- What did we miss about the Royals this season?
- Where have the Royals under achieved?
- What can the Royals learn from this season?
- How will this year affect the future?
Last week we put the bats under the microscope, this week it is the arms. Cole Ragans is pitching like an absolute ace, but who else is part of the long term plan for the Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk pitching for '23 and beyond...
- Ragans, is his value at its absolute peak?
- Is the future more good Singer or bad Singer?
- What role should Jordan Lyles serve next year?
- What should the Royals plan in Free Agency be?
- Will Daniel Lynch or Kris Bubic bounce back from their injuries?
- What do the Royals have in Nick Loftin?
A number of the Royals bats have awakened in the second half of the season... but how many of them are just a brief hot streak and how many of them can the Royals count on to be the real deal ?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down which bats are real and which are not...
- Bobby Witt Jr.
- Michael Garcia
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Michael Massey
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Drew Waters
- M.J. Melendez
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Kyle Isbel
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Nelson Velazquez
- Freddy Fermin
- Wrap up with the Minor League Minute.
Bobby Witt seems to have become the player the Royals thought he could be when they made him the 2nd overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft. So what do the Royals have to offer to lock him up?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what it would take to keep Witt in a Royals uniform for the long haul.
- How long would the contract be?
- How much money is it going to take?
- Would Witt even consider an extension?
- Is a long term extension the best move for the Royals?
Bobby Witt Jr. has been red hot and has pushed his OPS over .800... so is this offseason the deadline to either sign him to an extension or trade him?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss (or argue) about whether or not it is fair to expect Royals GM, J.J. Picollo to get a deal done or make a blockbuster trade for the franchise player just two years into his career.
- Should the Royals do what ever it takes to sign Bobby Witt Jr.?
- Contract time for Singer?
- Is Rany ready to get back on board with the front office?
- Ragans and Velazquez are providing good early returns.
The Trade Deadline in Major League Baseball has come and gone. What did the Royals accomplish?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the two most recent trades the Royals completed on Deadline Day as well as...
- How much did the trades advance the rebuild?
- Does this constitute "transactional"?
- Cole Ragans throws 6 shutout innings.
- Brady Singer throws 8 shutout innings.
- The Royals have won 6 straight.
- Minor League Minute.
The Royals have traded Nicky Lopez and Jose Cuas. Does this qualify as "transactional?" Did they get it right?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the trades the Royals have made...
- What did they get back?
- Should they have gotten more?
- Was the timing right on the trades?
- Have they added to the core of their team?
- Who should be traded next?
With seven days and six losses worth of time for Rany to work on quantifying how bad this season has gone for the Royals... You know it's time for a "Rany Rant" to start this week's Kauffman Corner.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals problems...
- How bad has it really gotten with the Royals?
- What did other teams do in similar situations?
- Who can the Royals trade?
- Should anyone be untouchable?
- Is there any way to show progress before the season's over?
With the trade deadline looming Aroldis Chapman has already been sent packing, but who's the next player getting ready to leave town?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Chapman trade and look ahead to who should be and will be next. Plus...
- Alec Marsh and Cole Ragans looked good vs. the Rays.
- Is the Royals pitching making progress?
- Royals 1st rounder Mitchell signs for $1M below slot.
- Review of the Royals Draft.
Even though history tells us it's a mistake to take a High School Catcher in the first round much more often than it's a success, that's exactly what the Royals did with the 8th Pick in the 2023 Draft. Why? Could it work? What does it mean for the direction of the franchise?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the selection of Blake Mitchell and the rest of the draft?
-
What should the expectations be for this draft?
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Drafting Blake Mitchell at #8 means what for the future of the front office?
- What can we expect from Mitchell?
- What kind of timeline is there for Mitchell to make the big leagues?
- Is this draft a sign of progress or more of the same?
- Where will the Royals go next?
Where should the Royals look in this year's draft? What has been the problem with the Royals Farm System. J.J. Cooper, Editor in Chiefs for Baseball America, joins the pod to discuss.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the draft as well as how the Royals scouting and development need to change.
- Who will be there at Pick #8 for the Royals?
- What should they be looking for?
- How good is this draft?
- How would J.J. Cooper handle the 8th pick?
- What has gone wrong in past drafts?
- Where do the Royals need to make changes still?
What have we learned about the Kansas City Royals in the first half of the season?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what about the team we know now from having watched the first half of the season...
- Is a total makeover the only way forward?
- Bobby Witt the SS?
- How many position players can the Royals count on?
And what do the Royals have to find out with the second half?
- Can any of their minor league pitchers throw strikes?
- What are Brady Singer and Daniel Lynch?
- Can J.J. Picollo engineer a major trade?
Why is Rany frustrated with Royals fans? What part does momentum play in baseball? Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest on the Royals...
-First base is Nick Pratto's... what will he do with it?
- What will the Royals record look like in the end?
- What kind of job has Matt Quatraro done?
- Is Samad Taylor part of the solution?
- Are we seeing progress with Bobby Witt Jr.?
- Why don't the Royals let Daniel Mack speak more?
Why is Rany frustrated with Royals fans? What part does momentum play in baseball?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest on the Royals...
- First base is Nick Pratto's... what will he do with it?
- What will the Royals record look like in the end?
- What kind of job has Matt Quatraro done?
- Is Samad Taylor part of the solution?
- Are we seeing progress with Bobby Witt Jr.?
- Why don't the Royals let Daniel Mack speak more?
Back to back sweeps at the hands of the Marlins and Orioles, two clubs that are showing signs of their rebuild coming together, and Rany's head is going to explode. Don't miss his passionate explanation as to why it's time for a reboot.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the current state of the Royals...
- Why Rany is ready to burn it all.
- Why Soren isn't ready to burn it all, but is ready for major change.
- What can the Royals do at the trade deadline?
- What should the Royals be looking for?
- The Minor League Minute.
The MLB Draft begins on Sunday, July 9th... We begin to discuss who the Royals should be considering with the 8th pick.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) preview the Royals Draft...
- Who realistically can the Royals get?
- What is the dream scenario?
- Should the Royals go signability in the first round?
- What do they need most?
- Who should they avoid?
- Who in the organization is showing progress?
Are the Royals actually showing signs of turning things in the right direction even if the record doesn't suggest it?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss where the Royals are potentially showing signs of growth. Plus...
- Why send Mayers out for a third look at the Cards lineup?
- Is Mike Mayers ready for a spot in the rotation?
- Daniel Lynch is back and the Royals can expect what?
- Where are we with Brady Singer now?
- Bobby Witt Jr. is out of the leadoff spot... is that the fix?
- Is Michael Massey taking ownership of second base?
- 6 K's in 13 AB's... Drew Waters is off to a slow start.
- Is Carlos Hernandez the Royals move valuable trade chip?
- Minor League Minute.
With a .267 OBP is it time for the Royals to look at moving Bobby Witt down in the batting order?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss everything involved in a decision to move Witt down. Also...
- How bullish should Royals fans be on Nick Pratto's hot start to the season?
- Is Salvador Perez on track for the Hall of Fame? If not, what will it take?
- What to make of the latest sweep at the hands of the White Sox?
- Brad Keller hit the IL... could it have been prevented?
- The Minor League Minute.
Is it possible the Royals offense is actually pretty good?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals recent success at the plate and whether it is just a coincidence or something the team can actually build upon. Plus...
- Jordan Lyles gets hit hard... Again! Rany's not taking it anymore.
- M.J. Melendez and why he's important to the future.
- Are we ready to say Witt is at SS for good?
- Is Nick Pratto making first base his own?
After one of the worst starts to a season in Royals history... What is a reasonable timeline for the Royals to return to the post-season? What will have to be done for Kansas City to see playoff baseball again?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) cut through the noise of the horrific start and discuss how far the Royals really are from contention as well as...
- Is it time to move Bobby Witt Jr. to Centerfield?
- Is there any pitcher the Royals can build around?
- Who are the players Is the new pitching approach working in the minors?
- Why are the strikeout numbers up for the low minors?
After a change at General Manager, Manager and Pitching Coach the feeling was 2023 would mark a new beginning for the Royals. Instead the Royals are on pace for 123 losses. So was April the MOST disappointing month in Royals history?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break that down as well as...
- Why are the Orioles and Pirates lapping the Royals?
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What will Bobby Witt be in the end?
-
The Minor League Minute.
Is it time to blow up the Royals? If it is time, how do you even do that? What is there to blow up?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what a total reboot of the Royals would look like, as well as...
- Is it a coaching problem or a talent problem?
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Is Matt Quatraro in over his head?
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Kris Bubic decided to have Tommy John Surgery.
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Could losing actually be the plan for these Royals?
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Minor League Minute.
The Royals are managing just a .250 Win Percentage and have just placed the most promising story of this brief 2023 Season, Kris Bubic, on the IL. How much worse can it get?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the latest with the Kansas City Royals...
- Is there any pitching on the way form the Minors?
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Is Vinnie Pasquantino actually the 2nd best hitter KC ever drafted?
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The defense continues to be a problem.
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Which of the Royals young hitters are legit?
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Are the Royals in a better spot now than they were in 2006?
-
Minor League Minute.
After Sunday's loss the Royals are just 3-7. So why is Rany in such a good mood?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) answer that question as well as...
- Is Kris Bubic for real?
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What about the rest of the Starting Pitching?
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Is Jackie Bradley Jr. really the plan?
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Where are the bats?
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What is the plan for the back of the bullpen?
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Minor League Minute is back. This week Maikel Garcia.
The Royals have stumbled out of the gates to start the season. What's wrong with the Royals? Is it just a few games or should there be genuine concern?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the slow start to the season as well as...
- Did Rany's head explode when Richard Lovelady was traded to the Braves?
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Is Kyle Isbel looking the part in CF?
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How big of a problem is the defense?
-
Early thoughts on Bobby Witt Jr.
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Edward Olivares is hitting the ball... will it continue?
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Brad Keller... new and improved or same old Keller Coaster?
- Velocity is back with Chapman
Prediction time for the Kauffman Corner Podcast. What will the Royals be this year?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) predict the Royals 2023 season...
- Royals Record
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Player of the Year
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Pitcher of the Year
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Surprise of the Year
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Bust of the Year
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Bold & Daring Predictions
They also discuss what the Royals could have in common with some of the "miracle teams" of the past as well as the injury to Daniel Lynch and what it means for the 26 man roster.
What are reasonable expectations for the Royals moving forward? With a semi-new regime in charge how many wins should be expected in each of the next few seasons? What about the playoffs? Payroll? Minor League System?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss what kind of expectations should be set moving forward for the Royals. Plus...
- Has Carlos Hernandez found a home in the bullpen?
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Jackson Kowar heads back to the minors... to throw his slider this time.
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Jake Brentz gets a 2-year deal coming off surgery.
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What to think about the PTBNL (Angel Pierre) in the Mondesi deal.
The eye test said MJ Melendez struggled defensively in his first season in the big leagues and now there's even more data that backs up what was plain for everyone to see... except the Royals apparently.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the newest metric to grade catchers as well as...
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What should the Royals plan be for behind the dish?
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The Royals are freshening up the broadcast booth.
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Other teams are handing out contracts to young players, why not KC?
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Nicky Lopez looks pretty good at Short Stop for Team Italy!
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Oh... and the Royals keep winning ALL THE TIME in Arizona.
Real or Not Real? Which Spring Training numbers can be taken as a real indication of what this team will be in 2023? Which are useful in projecting what players can be counted on to move the Royals up the Standings in 2023?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals start to the Spring as well as...
- What is the plan in Center Field?
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Are the new coaches already impacting the Pitching Staff?
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Is Singer ready to go to another level?
- Kris Bubic is throwing a slider.
Spring Training games are underway. It's time to take a shot at what the Royals 26-Man Roster is going to look like.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) take a shot at predicting what the Royals Roster will look like when they open the season at home against the Twins.
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Where are the difficult cuts?
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The bats better not get hurt!
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Which young players are headed back to the Minors?
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What will the Starting Rotation look like?
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Do the Royals really have pitching depth?
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Are there any surprises coming?
Pitchers and Catchers have reported and Petro is live in Surprise, AZ at Royals Spring Training. What does Zack Greinke think about the modern analytical approach to baseball? What are the hot battles to watch this Spring?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss Greinke's comments as well as...
- Hear from Greinke how he thinks the analytics have evolved.
- Devotion to the player or talent, hear which Ned Yost values more.
- What are we hearing from the new coaching staff?
- How different is the approach with Matt Quatraro?
- What are the key position player battles this Spring?
As Kansas City watches the Chiefs crowned champions for the second time in four year, we look at what lessons the Royals can take from the Chiefs formula in their attempt to return to the top of Major League Baseball.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) find discuss the lessons the Royals can take from the Chiefs like...
- Have a plan.
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Trust your youthful players.
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Invest in coaching.
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Throw numbers at the problem.
Keith Law, the best in the business at breaking down the prospects, joins the Kauffman Corner Podcast to analyze the Royals system and the changes the organization has made.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk to Keith about...
- Did any Royals make Keith's top 100?
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Who just missed?
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2022 number-10 overall pick Gavin Cross.
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Where is the Royals system right now?
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Is the Royals problem drafting or development?
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Front Office changes.
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Asa Lacy.
Mondi's history, but Zack's back. Eleven-and-a-half years after originally signing him, the Royals finally decided to move on from Adalberto Mondesi, trading him to the Red Sox. However they won't be moving on from Zack Greinke after agreeing to a one year deal with the future Hall of Fame right-hander.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the moves, plus...
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Why trade Mondesi now?
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What does the Mondesi trade mean for Bobby Witt Jr.?
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Is Nicky Lopez next?
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With Greinke's return, who makes the rotation?
Out with Michael A. Taylor and in with Aroldis Chapman. After a slow start the Kansas City Royals are starting to reshape their roster for the 2023 season.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the trade with the Twins and the signing of Chapman.
- Did the Royals get enough for Taylor?
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Was there a better deal to be had before now?
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Is there anything left in the tank for Chapman?
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Will Chapman have any value on the trade market?
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Paul Menhart hired as Pitching Advisor in Player Development.
Arbitration numbers are being exchanged and the Royals settled with all but one player, their best pitcher Brady Singer.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the arbitration cases and the Royals offseason with Joe Sheehan, author of the Joe Sheehan Baseball Newsletter. Plus...
- Rumors have the Red Sox looking at Adalberto Mondesi to fill their hole at Short Stop.
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How long should the turnaround take?
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What would be the red flags for J.J. Picollo's regime?
Jordan Lyles is a Royal and the Tigers move an All-Star reliever for three young position players. Why can't the Royals ever seem to make a trade like this?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the Royals lack of activity this offseason as well as...
- Is that it for KC in Free Agency?
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Is there anything still out there for the Royals? Greinke?
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Reviewing the Free Agent Plan from November.
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What was KC thinking with signing Ryan O'Hearn?
Part 2 of Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) breaking down their respective All-Time Royals Teams.
Last week was the hitting, this week it's the pitching staff. Again, they are selecting from the Royals best players to form the best 26-man roster to play a 162 game season. What five starters and six relievers make the best pitching staff to go along with last week's lineups and benches?
Sit back and enjoy the debate!
With the Holiday's upon us, here's the gift of the Royals All-Time team according to Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro). Jazayerli and Petro break down what each of their 26-man rosters would look like if you had to pick a roster out of the Royals all-time greats to play a 162 game season to decide the fate of the Universe.
This week they break down the position players. What 15 position players, starters and bench, would make for the best team. It's not just the best players in franchise history. The players had to play 7 years or they can only be a backup and you want a roster that can handle the rigors of a full baseball season.
Sit back and enjoy what the Royals best ever lineup and bench would look like according to Jazayerli and Petro.
Who are the top 10 prospects in the Royals organization? Bill Mitchell joins the Kauffman Corner Pod to discuss Baseball America's top 10 prospect list for the Royals. Is Gavin Cross the real deal? Can any pitching in the Royals system be counted on?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about what the Royals farm system looks like going into 2023 as well as KC's free-agent signing of Ryan Yarbrough and what it means for the Royals pitching staff.
More than $2-Billion has already been spent in free agency but the Royals haven’t spent a cent. Can this actually be the best approach?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down what’s happened so far in free agency and discuss where the Royals might have had opportunities as well as what the plan should be moving forward. The also discuss…
- The Rule - 5 Draft.
- The MLB Draft Lottery drops KC to 8th.
- The Royals avoid arbitration with Adalberto Mondesi.
The Royals have a pitching coach... Finally! After three seasons as the Cleveland Guardians Pitching Coach, Brian Sweeney has been tagged with turning the Royals under-achieving pitching nucleus around. Can he do it?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) answer that question, as well as...
- Free agency is underway, are the Royals aware of this fact?
- The Baseball Winter Meetings are underway.
- The Rule 5 Draft.
Rany Jazayerli and Soren Petro get in the holiday spirit with what they are most thankful for when it comes to Royals baseball. Don't miss Rany's tale of Post-Season redemption for Alex Gordon or Soren's story of how much Carlos Beltran taught him in his final (partial) season in Kansas City... plus George Brett, Bo Jackson, Alex Gordon and General Admission seating.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) give thanks for Royals baseball as well as discuss...
- When is it time to worry about the Royals not hiring a pitching coach yet?
- Can no news actually be good news?
The completely expected happened... the Royals brought back Ryan O'Hearn. Can this actually work?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Royals moves to set the 40-man roster as well as...
- Where should the Royals go in Free Agency?
- The Royals announce a $2-billion downtown "Ballpark District".
- Can the Royals do what the Phillies did?
The 40-Man roster deadline is approaching. Where are the Royals tough calls?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it down. They also talk...
- How does the Royals approach to the 40-Man need to change?
- Is any player untouchable on the trade market?
- Reports have Paul Hoover headed from the Rays to KC to be the new Bench Coach.
- Rany makes a passionate case for one addition the Royals should make to the Front Office?
What did the Royals get in naming Matt Quatraro their 18th Manager?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss some of the important points made during the Matt Quatraro introduction last week.
- How to blend the world of analytics with managing personalities.
- The importance of going with a manager from another organization.
- How to win in a small market?
- Will the Royals be active in signing its young talent to long term deals?
- What's the biggest thing for the Royals to take from the Astros WS win?
The Kansas City Royals got their man with Matt Quatraro being named their 18th full-time Manager. Did the Royals get it right and why?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) will break down the hire as well as discuss...
- What needs to happen first?
- What are the reasonable expectations for Quatraro?
- How long before the Royals should be a winning organization?
- What needs to happen next?
Still no new manager for the Royals, but they have interviewed three candidates. What should fans think about Pedro Grifol, Matt Quatraro and Dusty Wathan?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down the Managerial Candidates and play a round of "Fact or Fiction".
FACT OR FICTION...
- After ranking 10th in '22, Bobby Witt Jr. will rank top 3 next year?
- Scott Barlow will be the best reliever in the bullpen next year.
- Vinnie Pasquantino will be a top-20 hitter in all of baseball next season.
- The Royals will have a top half of baseball offense in 2023.
- Brady Singer will sign a 5+ year long contract.
- Asa Lacy will pitch in the big leagues in '23.
- Zack Greinke returns next year.
How much money will the Royals need to spend to get back to the playoffs?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss the rising cost of playoff baseball. What happens when the rich teams start spending their money wisely? You get a much more difficult road for a small market team like the Royals.
Jazayerli and Petro will also take a look at the arbitration cases that are looming this offseason. How much will it cost to keep Brady Singer, Scott Barlow, Josh Staumont, Adalberto Mondeis and Kris Bubic? How many players should the Royals just walk on?
After moving on from Dayton Moore a couple of weeks ago, this week the Royals moved on from Manager Mike Matheny and Pitching Coach Cal Eldred. Is that all the change that's necessary or is there more to come?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) answer that question as well as...
- Who are the candidates to be the Royals next manager?
- Did Mike Matheny ever have a chance?
- What is KC really, the team they thought could contend or still years away?
- Is it time to spend money on the roster?
With the 2022 Season coming to a close, who are the prospects in the Royals Farm System that will make the biggest impact in the near future? What's the upside for CF Drew Waters?
What do the numbers say about the Royals young hitters?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) each break out there list of the top dozen prospects to watch. Only players that still have rookie status are eligible for the list.
Since moving on from the Dayton Moore era, the Royals have won two series against two teams battling for the playoffs. Will a hot streak at the end of the season distract new head of Baseball Operations, J.J. Picollo from making necessary changes? Plus...
- Rany is ready to gush about Vinnie Pasquantino... again!
- What can mistakes of the past teach Picollo moving forward?
- Should the Royals be targeting Bobby Witt Jr. for a long term contract?
- Is Vinnie Pasquantino actually the better investment?
- What's the future for Mike Matheny?
After more than 16 seasons as the General Manager, the Royals made the decision to move on from Dayton Moore. It was made clear that this was the decision of owner John Sherman and not a retirement or Moore's decision. What brought this change about? What is next with J.J. Picollo now at the top of the organization? How fast can it all be fixed?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it all down in Episode 27 of the Kauffman Corner Podcast.
The Athletic released a no-holds barred breakdown of the Royals failure to develop pitching, complete with numerous quotes from opposing organizations and former players. Royals President of Baseball Operations Dayton Moore reacted this week to the article and was clearly not happy.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it all down in episode 26 of Kauffman Corner.
- What is the future for Dayton Moore? J.J.Picollo?
- What has gone wrong with Asa Lacy?
- Problems between the Royals organization and its pitchers is not new.
Rany made his annual pilgrimage to Kauffman Stadium this past weekend. He was joined by friend of the Pod, Joe Sheehan (Author of the Joe Sheehan Baseball Newsletter). What were the highlights and lowlights of the weekend at the ballpark and around town? What was the reaction to the Royals after seeing them in person for an entire series?
Plus MLB has implemented rule changes for 2023. What effect will a pitch clock, bigger bases and limiting the shift have on the game and the Royals specifically?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it all down in Episode 25 of the Kauffman Corner Podcast.
Bobby Witt Jr. is a 20/20 player in his rookie season. What is the upside for his career? What should Royals fans expect? Where does he fit best?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break down Bobby Witt Jr.'s future. Plus…
- What’s the one Free Agent the Royals should target this offseason?
- How many current Royals will be on KC’s next playoff team?
- What to do about Hunter Dozier?
The Mariners have given Julio Rodriguez a mega contract just days after the Braves locked up Michael Harris to a multi-year agreement, should the Royals be the next team to hand a young player a long term contract with Bobby Witt Jr.?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it down from every angle...
- How does Witt Jr. compare to Rodriguez and Harris?
- What kind of player do the Royals actually extend?
- Does a clubhouse need a Red-Ass?
- Would Dayton Moore have signed a 21/22 year-old George Brett back in the day?
- Minor League Minute... some good news from the farm.
The Royals have dropped 6 of 8 and are now looking at some historical mile stones you don't want to reach as a franchise. Royals vs. Orioles rebuild. Why the O's are making their plan to contend a reality.
Plus Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking...
- Drew Waters making his MLB debut.
- Plate discipline continues to be a bright spot.
- How concerned should the Royals be with Nick Pratto's K-Rate?
- Bobby Witt should be playing where?
- How many winning seasons have the Royals had the last 28 years?
- Minor League Minute.
Rany Jazayerli (@Jazayerli/Co-Founder of Baseball Prospectus) is back Stateside and ready to discuss how far the Royals are from contending. Rany and Soren Petro (@SorenPetro/Sports Radio 810-WHB) break it down along with...
- How good can Brady Singer become?
- Brad Keller can't start another game, can he?
- Which one of the Baby Royals will have the biggest bat?
- What should the off-season priority be for the Royals?
- Minor League Minute: The '22 draft class is getting a much earlier start.
The "Baby" Royals take 3/4 from the Red Sox and are now (8-9) since the All Star Break powered mostly by home-grown youth. How bright is the Royals future now? David Lesky (InsidetheCrown.com@DBLesky) pinch-hits for Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and joins Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB/@SorenPetro) to discuss...
- How believable is the Royals post-All Star Break success?
- Are the Royals building for the long haul or a brief window of opportunity?
- Where does M.J. Melendez fit best moving forward?
- Drew Waters is looking like he could be the next "Baby" Royal.
- Pitching, pitching, pitching.
- What kind of change will the off-season bring?
The Trade Deadline has come and gone and Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking about what the Royals did or didn't get done...
- Whit Merrifield is a Blue Jay. Seriously!
- Cam Gallagher is a Padre.
Is Brent Rooker enough?
- Emanuel Rivera goes to AZ for Luke Weaver.
- KC sends cash to Seattle for LHP Anthony Misiewicz.
- Michael A. Taylor, Scott Barlow, Brad Keller and others all stay put. Good/Bad?
- The Royals 40-man roster has 27 pitchers. How does that work?
- How does it fit in 2023?
The Royals only get one of four games in New York against the Yankees. What to make of the series? KC gets three arms for Andrew Benintendi. How good are they? Brady Singer has 22 K's in his last two starts. Are we watching the birth of an Ace? Drew Waters now has an 1.101 OPS in Omaha. Did the Royals fleece the Braves? The Trade Deadline looms. Will the Royals get anything else done?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) break it all down on this week's episode of Kauffman Corner.
On Saturday Brady Singer punched out a career high 12 batters and Sunday Kris Bubic hung seven innings on just 82 pitches. Is the Royals pitching all fixed? Rany Jazayerli and Soren Petro break down Brady Singer, Kris Bubic and all the Royals pitching. How bad is it now with Asa Lacy? What are the takeaways from the first half? Over view of the Royals draft. What expectations should Royals fans have for the Trade Deadline?
(01:01) Brady Singer. What is the floor and ceiling now?
(30:50) How bad has it gotten with Asa Lacy?
(40:45) Jonathan Bowlan is probably the best pitching prospect in the system again.
(43:45) Take aways from the first half of the season.
(1:00:45) Final view of the Royals Draft.
(1:07:05) Trade Deadline is coming.
The Royals grab Virginia Tech - OF, Gavin Cross with the 9th pick in this year's MLB Draft and Arkansas - 3B, Cayden Wallace at pick #49. The guys break down both picks as well as detail how this draft will be considered a success. What has to happen with the Royals trade of the #35 pick to the Braves for Drew Waters and two more players to be considered a success?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the draft's first night as well as the Royals 4-game series in Toronto.
Emergency Pod! After the Royals head to Toronto without 10 unvaccinated players... that's twice as many as the team with the next most and more than 26% (10/38 Total) of the total number of MLB unvaccinated players on the rest of the teams traveling to Toronto... Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) discuss...
- Who's not in Toronto?
- How will this affect how the team is constructed moving forward?
- With the deadline approaching, how does this affect trade value?
- What was Whit Merrifield thinking with his comments?
- Final straw for Cal Eldred?
The Royals continue to languish 20 games below .500 while the Orioles are now (43-44). How much should this concern Royals fans? Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking it down, along with...
- What pitcher has ever gone quickly through the Royals system and succeeded?
- Minor League Minute
- Royals Draft
- Only vaccinated players can play in Toronto. KC travels North of the Border 7/14.
(0:54) Orioles vs. Royals. Why is it working in Baltimore and not KC?
(10:10) What pitcher is outperforming expectations now? Or ever under this regime?
(27:47) The one thing the Royals have always done is swing at EVERYTHING! (until now)
(40:38) Why the Royals don't value the BB the same with hitting as well as pitching.
(53:58) Predictions on how the Royals draft will go next week.
(1:01:16) Royals are headed to Toronto... at least the ones that have been vaccinated.
(1:04:32) DOCTOR Rany Jazayerli drops some history on vaccinations.
MLB Draft is less than 2 weeks away and KC has the 9th pick. How should the Royals approach this draft? Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the draft as well as looking ahead to the Trade Deadline, talking Jackson Kowar out of the bullpen and looking to the Minors for help with the Minor League Minute.
(0:54) The Royals have played .500 baseball for three straight weeks. What's it mean?
(9:25) What should the Royals strategy in the draft look like? Who should they be targeting?
(37:29) Young players are playing well so will KC be more aggressive at the trade deadline?
(42:28) 2020 1st round pick Asa Lacy is back throwing and it's gotten even worse.
(46:09) The Royals can't simply "find" a couple of starters in today's baseball.
(51:03) The Minor League Minute: Who's the next guy to come up? Michael Massey?
(59:30) How to take the comments of Royals Owner John Sherman from last week?
(1:01:06) Jackson Kowar is having success out of the bullpen. Why?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking about the Royals trading Carlos Santana. How did they pull that off? Finally giving Vinnie Pasquantino the call to the big leagues. What does Twins' pitching coach Wes Johnson leaving for LSU mean about how much big league teams really care about their coaching staff? Jackson Kowar impresses in relief. Did the Royals blow it by letting Salvy try to play through injury?
(1:20) The Royals were actually able to get Carlos Santana traded. What did they get in return? What to expect from Wyatt Mills and William Fleming? How important is it that the Royals at $4.3M in Santana salary?
(9:56) Rany reminds us on how the Padres stole Esteury Ruiz form the Royals in a trade.
(20:56) The legend of SungWoo in '14 and Rany's passion for Netflix's "Stranger Things."
(24:11) What should be expected from Vinnie Pasquantino? Aaron Judge? Matt Stairs?
(48:31) Twins pitching coach Wes Johnson left for LSU. What should this mean to the Royals?
(59:59) Jackson Kowar impresses out of the bullpen... Kris Bubic doesn't impress in his start.
(1:03:18) Did the Royals blow it by letting Salvy try to play through injury?
(1:06:47) Minor League Minute: Northwest Arkansas, Outfielder Tyler Gentry.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are feeling the spirit of Father's Day as they dig deep to find the positives going on within the Royals organization. Do they agree on what the positives are? Of course not. They discuss... Where does Bobby Witt Jr. rank? M.J. Melendez's bat is a positive but what about his lack of a position? Are the minor leagues a positive? Is the young pitching a positive?
(0:35) Happy Father's Day!
(4:55) Rany like the health of the pitching staff.
(8:03) Petro is positive on Hunter Dozier bouncing back with the bat and his future value.
(13:57) Rany is high on the bullpen... Petro's not as sold on it.
(19:08) With Benintendi and Taylor, the Royals prove they can find the "mortar" guys.
(22:55) The importance of making players better... all the good teams do.
(33:17) M.J. Melendez bat is a positive, but where does he play?
(49:15) Rany says the minor leagues as a whole are a positive. Petro, not so much!
(55:24) The young Royals starters are starting to get strikeouts and limit walks.
(59:59) Bobby Witt Jr. is a definitive positive for the Royals.
(1:07:45) Minor League Minute: Double-A Catcher, Logan Porter.
(1:13:16) Lorenzo Cain was released by the Brewers. What he meant to the Royals.
(1:17:38) The Passing of Dave Wickersham... one of the original Royals and stand up man.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking about the Royals continued problems with their pitching staff. Is it possible the pitching coach is not part of the problem? Any positives with Jonathan Heasley, BradySinger and Daniel Lynch? How has Michael Taylor mastered the strike zone? Is there a negative side to M.J. Melendez hot hitting?
(1:30) Reaction to the last week... Rany points out the uptick in offense.
(5:19) Is there accountability within the Royals when it comes to the pitching staff?
(16:56) The guys review the past comments of the organization boasting about Daniel Lynch.
(23:42) What does Jonathan Heasley's sparkling last start mean for the Royals drafting?
(30:00) Brad Keller has inspired a Royals version of the "Oompa Loompa Song."
(34:38) The "Keller Coaster" continues. Is he underachieving or just bad?
(43:40) Michael A. Taylor has cut down on his strikeouts... so trade him, right?
(55:27) M.J.Melendez has an OPS over .800... is there a downside to this?
(1:06:46) The Jakob Junis Minute... Rany gives the latest on his success with the Giants.
(1:08:39) Minor League Minute: Diego Hernandez
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) talk about the Royals pitching. Rany is ready to call for Cal Eldred's job. Rany lays out just how bad the pitching numbers are under Eldred. Should ownership be at a "blow it all up" point with this regime?
(1:03) A "Rany Rant"... Rany calls for Cal Eldred's job as the pitching coach and here's why!
(18:52) The latest on Jakob Junis and his success with the Giants.
(21:35) Cal Eldred declines Petro's invitation to appear on his radio show. What's that mean?
(34:59) Rany talks about the levels of change the Royals have to consider.
(38:40) Petro asks when the Royals will have a prospect (Witt Jr.) "kick ass" from the start?
(47:10) Petro points out how the Astros have turned over their entire team while still winning!
(52:35) Only 12K fans at the K Sunday how big of a statement is that?
(54:19) The latest thoughts on Brady Singer, Jonathan Heasley and Jose Cuas.
(1:04:12) The guys are asked how close are they from saying it's time for a house cleaning?
(1:15:36) Minor League Minute: Erick Pena (most expensive international signing) is not hitting at all!
(1:17:28) Are there any positives to end with?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are talking about the Royals hitting the bottom of the Major League standings. Why do Royals pitchers pitch well in the minors but struggle in the big leagues... the Royals will tell you not to look at Pitching Coach Cal Eldred. What's going on in the minors?
(1:15) The Royals have now reached the cellar in the baseball standings. What's it mean?
(6:44) Jonathan Heasley minor league strike thrower struggles to find the plate now. Why?
(14:22) How toxic is the relationship between the organization and the fan base?
(27:10) At what point is Mike Matheny's job on the line?
(35:20) Rany quotes Bill James definition of a "blunder" and how it applies to Carlos Santana.
(39:35) Royals had a man on and saw 18 straight pitches out of the zone and didn't score.
(46:00) Rany talks about the newest Royals... Arodys Vizcaino and Jose Cuas.
(50:26) Updates Royals top picks Asa Lacy, Frank Mozzicato, Ben Kudrna and Shane Panzini.
(1:03:30) Jakob Junis Update + Minor League Minute: Meet Drew Parrish.
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are back talking about the Royals latest slow start to the season. The 40 game milestone has been reached and it is another first quarter of disappointment for the Royals. What to do next? Who needs to be put on the trade block? What year should be the target for this organization to compete? Frank Mozzicato and Ben Kudrna made their long awaited debuts for the Royals, what does that mean for the organization?
(1:55) After an epic meltdown the Royals are 14-26, what does that mean for the future?
(10:08) What to make of a second start with 7 shutout innings from Brady Singer.
(15:30) Four pitchers are the biggest reason the Royals are off to such a bad start.
(17:58) Comparing the lineup of today's Royals vs. 2018... how much better is it really?
(25:38) Rany wants Andrew Benintendi gone now... as in traded now!
(34:37) The key is to figure out accurately when the Royals will be ready to contend.
(47:05) Either released or traded, who needs to go?
(56:25) Frank Mozzicato and Ben Kudrna make their minor league debut, finally!
(1:03:29) Spreading money around multiple players in the draft, is that now the philosophy?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the very latest with the Kansas City Royals. Should the Royals sign or trade Brad Keller? What is he and what is he worth? The Royals win a "bullpen game," why don't they do this more? Why can they develop a power bullpen but struggle so much with starting pitching? What's the plan with M.J. Melendez? Why is Carlos Hernandez still with the big club? And we wrap it all up with the Minor League Minute.
(1:58) How important was Sunday's win for the Royals?
(4:51) Developing young talent is still a question, but how does '22 compare to the '12 team?
(13:45) Rany says the 2012 team was losing but had more younger talent.
(21:30) When will the Royals accept the reality of Carlos Hernandez?
(22:50) What should the Royals do with Brad Keller? Sign him? Trade him?
(39:45) The latest on Jakob Junis flourishing away from the Royals.
(42:45) Why can the Royals develop relievers but not starters?
(51:34) Why not an opener? Gabe Speier looked great at it. Could he be the guy?
(58:06) Rany shows why the Whit Merrifield games played streak is counter productive.
(1:02:14) Do the Royals have a plan for M.J. Melendez?
(1:06:30) Ryan O'Hearn is still playing for the Royals.
(1:07:57) The Minor League Minute
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus/@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com/@SorenPetro) are breaking down the Kansas City Royals like no one else can. Let's take a moment to appreciate Zack Greinke. Let's try to explain why Ryan O'Hearn is on the Royals roster and Vinnie Pasquantino is not. Edward Olivares is hitting, so of course he gets hurt.
(1:02) Edward Olivares gets hurt just when Rany was getting excited about his numbers.
(5:04) What can Royals fans get excited about with this team? Witt? Melendez?
(14:28) Let's appreciate Zack Greinke. How remarkable is his success w/out K's?
(29:49) So Jakob Junis isn't good enough for the Royals but he's a stud for the Giants now?
(40:15) Is Ryan O'Hearn still a Royal because they're afraid Vinnie Pasquantino will fail?
(51:18) What would it have really taken for the Royals to get Frankie Montas?
(1:00:23) The good news is Bobby Witt Jr. and M.J. Melendez have good K rates.
(1:02:50) Minor League Minute: Double-A 2B, Michael Massey looks like the real deal.
(1:05:45) Can you squint and see how it comes together for the Royals?
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com) are back breaking down the Kansas City Royals. This week they talk about what being swept by the New York Yankees means? What will life without Adalberto Mondesi mean? M.J. Melendez gets the call to the big leagues, what should we expect? And much more!!!
(2:38) At (7-13), how bad is it really for the Royals?
(7:02) Can Royals fans trust this front office to make another premium draft pick?
(12:41) Mondesi is hurt again, what do the Royals need to learn about while he's out?
(18:37) Will the Royals actually trade Whit Merrifield?
(22:52) Should Bobby Witt Jr. be playing SS now?
(27:10) M.J. Melendez has been called up. How much should we see him?
(32:20) What needs to happen with the front office?
(37:03) Where are the Royals draft picks from last year? Why aren't they pitching?
(46:06) Why hasn't Asa Lacy pitched since 4/17? Why haven't the Royals drafted bats?
(51:11) The Royals starters aren't giving the team innings and that is a recipe for failure.
(58:57) Is Daniel Lynch becoming a starter the Royals can count on?
(1:02:06) As promising as Lynch has been, it's the opposite with Carlos Hernandez.
(1:04:13) Minor League Minute: John Heasley
Rany Jazayerli (Co-Founder Baseball Prospectus) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, 810whb.com) are breaking down a Royals team that is working on its second 4+ game losing streak of the season. What is functionally wrong with this organization? From Adalberto Mondesi to the lack of transactions, Jazayerli and Petro are breaking it down.
(0:55) Are we far enough in to start getting worried about the Royals start?
(3:06) Is this the end of Whitt Merrifield? Should the Royals have traded him?
(12:40) Rany reminds us about the trade that brought Dylan Coleman and Edward Olivares.
(17:45) Is the front office too close to the players? Mondesi for example!!!
(29:40) Bunting and why when and when not-to is a mystery to the Royals.
(41:24) Why can't the Royals pitchers strike anyone out?
(50:29) Let's talk Brady Singer... Again!
(59:20) The Giants have decided to fix Jakob Junis.
(1:04:05) Minor League Minute: Vinnie Pasquantino
Rany Jazayerli (@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (Sports Radio 810-WHB, @SorenPetro) are back breaking down the Royals slow start to the 2022 season. There's heat on Pitching Coach Cal Eldred, but why not heat on Hitting Coach Terry Bradshaw? Time to sign Brad Keller? Andrew Benintendi? What should the batting order look like? Where does a Hunter Dozier that hits fit on the team? Rany's Minor League Minute.
(1:44) Cal Eldred gets heat, when does that heat arrive for Terry Bradshaw?
(9:13) How to fix the batting order. Should Merrifield be at the top?
(13:51) Are the Royals holding on to players too long?
(23:12) How the Giants have built back vs. the Royals approach.
(29:13) Brian Bannister and Brent Strom... pitching gurus that got away.
(32:57) Brad Keller is under team control through '23. Sign him or trade him?
(39:35) Do you trade or sign Andrew Benintendi?
(48:25) Is the hot start the real Hunter Dozier? Where does he fit?
(56:19) Minor League Minute - Maikel Garcia.
Rany Jazayerli (@Jazayerli) and Soren Petro (@SorenPetro) debut their new podcast dedicated to covering the Kansas City Royals. Everything from yesterday's game to the very latest on the Royals top prospects... Analytics to pure passionate, knee-jerk reactions and everything in between when it comes to the Royals.
(00:00) What the plan is for The Kauffman Corner Podcast.
(06:48) Why do the Royals get treated with "Kid Gloves"?
(15:25) Do the Royals have talent in their young pitchers?
(20:45) Just how bad has Jackson Kowar been to start his career?
(27:10) What's wrong with the Royals young starting pitchers?
(40:15) What are the expectations for what Bobby Witt Jr.'s career will be?
(48:08) Why don't the Royals move their depth to fill their needs?
(58:02) Can the Royals trade anyone they like as a person?
(1:03:20) Takeaways from the Indians series.
(1:05:23) Is Bobby Witt Jr. going to be signing a Fernando Tatis like contract soon?
(1:11:00) Minor League Minute - Nick Lofting to Center Field.