Royals Could Reshape Lineup by Targeting Two-Time Gold Glove Outfielder, Insider Suggests
More power in the lineup could be exactly what the Kansas City Royals need to bounce back. After a disappointing 2025 campaign that ended with an 82–80 record and a missed postseason, the Royals enter the offseason looking to add offensive consistency — particularly in the outfield. While the pitching staff held steady, the bats often went cold, leaving power as a key area for improvement heading into 2026.
Fortunately for Kansas City, this year’s free-agent class offers several intriguing options, and one name stands out: Trent Grisham.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, who highlighted 30 players expected to shape the free-agent market, Grisham could be an ideal fit for the Royals. The two-time Gold Glove winner is coming off a breakout season with the New York Yankees, where he hit .235/.348/.464 with 34 home runs, 74 RBIs, an .811 OPS, and 3.5 WAR. Once regarded mainly for his defense, Grisham’s offensive surge in 2025 showcased the type of left-handed power Kansas City’s lineup has been missing.
Adding Grisham would solve multiple needs at once: elite defense in center field and legitimate pop from the left side. Slotting him alongside Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, Salvador Perez, and Maikel Garcia would give manager Matt Quatraro a deeper, more balanced lineup.
Financially, such a move would push the Royals beyond their usual comfort zone. However, a short-term, high-value deal with opt-outs could make sense — offering Grisham flexibility while allowing Kansas City to secure an impact player without a lengthy commitment.
Beyond the numbers, a signing like this could inject new energy into both the clubhouse and fanbase as the Royals aim for contention in 2026.
If Kansas City is serious about returning to the postseason, upgrading their outfield with a blend of power and defense should be the top priority. Trent Grisham checks every box — and could be the spark that reignites the Royals’ playoff ambitions in the AL Central race against Detroit and Cleveland.
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