3 Positions The Royals Must Improve to Make Playoffs in 2024

3. Corner Outfielder

The Royals' infield feels mostly set with Maikel Garcia's impressive season, Bobby Witt Jr.'s MVP-like performance and solid contributions from players like Vinnie Pasquantino, Freddy Fermin and Michael Massey.

We could use some angels in the outfield, though. MJ Melendez hit just .235 with a negative WAR and Edward Olivares projects more as a utility player. Young guys like Nate Eaton aren't ready and while Nelson Velazquez was spectacular with the Royals, it's difficult to count on that level of production without any back-up plan.

I'm thrilled to see Velazquez's development this season and Tyler Gentry is a developmental piece that should contribute next year as well, but Kansas City still needs another power bat in the outfield.

Drew Waters' development should keep the outfield defense strong, but his offensive struggles make his position uncertain. If he improves with Velazquez and Melendez providing pop, we'll have a promising outfield. That's a lot of "ifs" though, and I'd rather bank on acquiring a player to help lead the development.

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