The Kansas City Royals are casting a wide net in their offseason trade pursuits. According to Anne Rogers of MLB.com, the Royals are actively exploring multiple trade opportunities this offseason. Rogers reports that the Royals have already engaged in discussions with several clubs. The Royals have reportedly discussed a trade with the Cincinnati Reds, centered around right-hander Brady Singer and infielder Jonathan India. However, that appears to be one of several irons in the fire for Royals general manager J.J. Picollo.
Multiple Teams, Players Involved in Royals’ Trade Discussions
In addition to the discussion with the Reds about India, the Royals have also engaged in trade talks with the Philadelphia Phillies regarding third baseman Alec Bohm and Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward. Notably, all three players share two characteristics: they are right-handed hitters and possess multiple years of club control. While exploring free agency remains an option, the Royals appear to be focusing on the trade market, where they believe more attractive options exist.
Ward, who will turn 31 in December, boasts two more seasons of control and produced a solid 2024 season, hitting .246/.323/.426 with 25 home runs. His impressive .873 OPS against left-handed pitchers could provide a significant boost to the Royals’ lineup. Kansas City had previously expressed interest in Ward at the trade deadline. Despite Ward’s value, the Angels’ recent offseason moves – cinluding trading for Jorge Soler and signing Travis d’Arnaud, Kyle Hendricks and Kevin Newman – suggest the team is more focused on adding talent than subtracting it.
Bohm, 28, is likely to attract interest from multiple teams. However, he is seen as a good fit for the Royals, who could utilize him in a lower lineup spot. Bohm’s 2024 stats were impressive, as he hit .280/.332/.448 with 15 home runs. Although his defensive metrics at third base have been a concern in the past, Bohm showed significant improvement in 2024. He posted career-best marks in Defensive Runs Saved (0) and Outs Above Average (4). If the Royals believe Bohm’s defensive gains are sustainable, he could become an even more appealing trade target.
The Phillies potential willingness to trade Bohm stems from their desire to reconfigure an offense that has fallen short in recent postseason appearances. With several positions already occupied by expensive veterans, the Phillies have limited avenues for upgrading their lineup, making third base one of the few areas where they can consider making changes.
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