Kansas City Royals was one of the best pitchers in MLB in 2024. He pitched to a 3.14 ERA across 32 starts and ultimately finished fourth in American League Cy Young voting. Meanwhile, the Royals reached the postseason. In 2025, both Ragans and the Royals did not meet their expectations.

Ragans was limited to 13 starts on the mound. Being limited may have impacted his overall performance, as he turned in a lackluster 4.67 ERA across his 61.2 innings of work. The Royals ended up missing the playoffs as well. 

Both Ragans and Kansas City are looking to get back on track in 2026. Of course, Ragans -- the Royals' ace -- will help the team by staying healthy and finding his 2024 form once again. During an interview with MLB Network Radio, Ragans commented on the '24 playoff run.

"A couple of years ago, we got a little bit of a taste of the playoffs and all that," Ragans said. "We know what our end goal is."

Ragans would go on to express his confidence in the current roster. He believes in the team. Ragans also expects it to be a "fun year" as Kansas City looks to return to the postseason. 

As the interview continued, Ragans would also describe the feeling of pitching in October. It goes without saying, but pitching in the playoffs is an entirely different atmosphere.

"I don't know if words can explain the adrenaline rush you get, the excitement you get to play in October," Ragans said. 

The southpaw added that he watches the postseason every year, which is something that not every player does. Some guys check out and go on vacation as soon as their season comes to an end. Meanwhile, Ragans is locked in and focused on watching competitive October baseball. 

Of course, he prefers to be on the mound in the big moment. If the Royals do end up returning to the playoffs in 2026, Ragans will surely be a big reason behind their success.

The left-hander still has the ceiling of one of baseball's best pitchers. The 28-year-old could end up being an American League Cy Young candidate once again.

In order for him to have a true bounce back performance, he will obviously need to stay healthy. Of course, that can be said about every player. With Ragans, though, it is worth repeating since he was limited last year.  His availability may end up determining how much success he ends up finding in 2026. 

Ragans is currently in the process of building up for the regular season in spring training.