The Royals have questions heading into the 2026 season.
The Kansas City Royals could end up competing in 2026. With that being said, the ball club does have questions.
If everything goes right, then perhaps we will see KC back in the postseason. If not, the Royals could realistically be a seller at the 2026 trade deadline.
Here's three questions facing the Royals heading into the upcoming 2026 campaign.
Who is Cole Ragans?
Ragans was one of the best pitchers in the sport in 2024. He pitched to a 3.14 ERA across 32 starts and finished fourth in American League Cy Young voting. In 2025, Ragans was limited to only 13 starts due to injury. He looked like a different pitcher while on the mound, turning in a 4.67 ERA.
So, who exactly is Cole Ragans? Is he the Cy Young caliber hurler who impressed a couple of years ago? Only time will tell.
Ragans is under contract through 2028 so Kansas City doesn't need to trade or try to sign him to a contract extension yet, but the Royals would surely love to know if Ragans will be able to pitch at a high level once again.
Will the Royals' Outfield Offer Enough Production?
The Royals were previously linked to Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran in trade rumors, but now it seems that a deal may not end up coming to fruition. Kansas City's outfield has legitimate uncertainty at the moment.
Isaac Collins projects to be a quality addition. Jac Caglianone features the ceiling of a star. Kyle Isbel could make a respectable impact. Lane Thomas wasn't a bad offseason addition.
Still, Kansas City's infield is clearly its best position player group. Bobby Witt Jr., Maikel Garcia, Jonathan India, Vinnie Pasquantino, and Salvador Perez will lead the way offensively.
Kansas City will need its outfield to step up as well, however.
Can the Royals Compete in the AL Central?
The American League Central is a winnable division. There isn't a clear favorite. The Detroit Tigers are a good team but Tarik Skubal is a trade candidate. As for the Cleveland Guardians, their offense has serious questions. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Twins are mediocre at best while the Chicago White Sox are still rebuilding.
The Royals are looking to take a step forward and compete for a division title. Cleveland and Detroit should still be able to play at a respectable level, so Kansas City will need a complete team effort.