As we dive into the Royals’ plans for the 2025 season, it’s impossible to ignore the elephant in the room: their outfield. Coming off a dismal performance in 2024 where their outfielders ranked 29th in Major League Baseball for fWAR, one might expect some shake-ups. However, the Royals seem to be sticking to their guns, fielding the same trio of MJ Melendez, Kyle Isbel, and Hunter Renfroe as their potential starters for another go-round.
Sure, there might be some slight adjustments thanks to the versatility of infielders Jonathan India and Michael Massey, who have been testing the waters in left field. But it’s clear that Kansas City’s offseason didn’t feature the splashy outfield upgrades many anticipated, leaving some fans and analysts apprehensive about this decision.
Center field remains a particular point of contention. Recent rankings from Bleacher Report placed Isbel at 26th among the 30 projected Opening Day starters in that position.
Not exactly a ringing endorsement, but context matters. Isbel is known for his glove work, a classic defense-first center fielder.
His batting wasn’t stellar, with an 83 OPS+, but flashes of potential remain as he posted career highs in key categories. For a player with solid minor league numbers (.277/.353/.455), there’s hope he can elevate his game further.
But let’s not kid ourselves—relying solely on Isbel’s defense isn’t a sustainable strategy if the Royals want to make noise this season. Last year, Isbel was their top-ranked outfielder in terms of fWAR with just 1.4. If that’s enough to place him as 26th best in the league, it’s a clear indication that the Royals need more in the outfield.
The silver lining? Things aren’t set in stone.
Perhaps India or Massey will turn into left field assets, or top prospect Jac Caglianone might step in by midseason to bolster their ranks. But right now, KC is indeed drawing some criticism for not addressing their outfield needs more aggressively over the winter.
It’s a gamble—a big one—that the Royals hope pays off as the season unfolds.
