Kansas City Royals Congratulate Three Players For Team Awards

The Kansas City Royals didn't have a season that was up to standards after they missed out on the postseason for the second-straight year and finished fifth in the AL Central. Nonetheless, they had some bright spots that they can build around going forward and a few players worthy of recognition for their efforts in what was an otherwise disappointing season.

With that, starting pitcher Michael Wacha was named Bruce Rice Pitcher of the Year while shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. earned Les Milgram Player of the Year and veteran Salvador Perez got the nod for the Joe Burke Special Achievement award.

Wacha was dominant in typical fashion during his third year in a Royals uniform, posting a 3.32 ERA and 1.11 WHIP while striking out 158 batters through 200.2 innings pitched. As a result, the 35-year-old succeeded teammate Noah Cameron who earned the same award last year. It was no surprise that other teams inquired about Wacha before the Aug. 3 trade deadline, but talks fell apart due to Kansas City's steep asking price per Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report. 

Meanwhile, Witt Jr. had another impressive year, leading the Royals with 157 hits and a .359 on-base percentage. The 26-year-old slashed .276/.349/.434 against righties while hitting .297 against lefties. Besides earning Les Milgram Player of the Year, Witt Jr. was also named a Silver Slugger finalist and is currently in the running for this year's AL MVP Award.

Perez had a historic season in his own right, surpassing George Brett's franchise record of 317 home runs. The 36-year-old Perez has now launched 324 homers throughout his 15-year career that began with the Royals. However, his age started to show as he batted .229 and recorded a .656 OPS in 152 games this year.

Even though he's the face of the team, Kansas City must keep giving opportunities to fellow catcher Carter Jensen who has produced a lot more while being 13 years younger. Still, Perez's experience and game calling have been valuable over the years. 

Despite incredible seasons from Wacha, Witt Jr. and Perez, the Royals will need more to go right for them in order to contend next year. Their bullpen was a major weakness as it ranked 29th in the league and posted an underwhelming 5.07 ERA.

However, if general manager J.J. Picollo can turn things around in the offseason, Kansas City certainly has the talent in place to make noise in the division next season.