Kansas City Royals news: Will the Royals ever win again?

“We’ve just got to keep pushing forward. There’s nothing else we can do. We’re diligent in our work. We just got to make sure we’re doing the right things when we get out onto the field.” Philip Ruo at Royals Keep looks at Isaac Collins’ drop in defense this year. In 2026, Isaac Collins ranks 33rd out of 46 qualified outfielders in overall jump. His initial reaction is good, ranking third with 3.5 feet covered above average in the first 1.5 seconds. His burst is closer to average, with 0.3 feet covered above MLB average in the 1.5-second burst after the initial reaction.

The issue lies with his routes. Collins ranks last in route with 4.8 fewer feet covered against the direct, optimal path, over a foot worse than the second-worst outfielder. Pete Grathoff writes about how Eric Hosmer is urging leadership in the Royals’ clubhouse. “Honestly, it takes either Salvador Perez or Bobby Witt Jr. to walk in that clubhouse right now,” Hosmer said. “I’m sure those guys are sitting in their locker, staring at the wall, saying, ‘What happened?’

“One of those guys is going in there, saying, ‘Hey boys, that’s the fight, right there. You continue on with these next 130 games like that (and) we’re going to be where we want to be at the end of the year.’” Sam McDowell writes the Royals need to provide more answers for this ballpark proposal than they did the last time. As of Thursday, the Royals might have just been gifted an opportunity to fulfill their original vision, though they’re still seeking significant state contribution and potentially county contribution. But they’ve also been gifted an opportunity for a public perception reset.

It’s not yet clear how far-reaching they would pursue a surrounding ballpark district in a space that at first glance is tight. But no matter what is built, they would need to bring a couple of things they failed to deliver two years ago:

Details.

Public clarity.

“They have to be more transparent,” Eric Bunch, councilman for the Fourth District told me afterward. “It’s paramount.” Joel Goldberg talks to Vinnie Pasquantino about his struggles. What will happen to Crown Center under the potential stadium plan? How Andy Pages injected offense into the Dodgers lineup. Can contract extensions with young players go wrong? The Angels may have found an ace in José Soriano. Cubs pitcher Cade Horton has Tommy John surgery. Tatsuya Imai thinks his arm injuries could stem in part from trouble adjusting to an American lifestyle. Chelsea owner José E. Feliciano is close to buying the San Diego Padres for a MLB-record $3.9 billion. Former All-Star closer Brad Lidge is now an archaeologist. Authorities issue warnings after drones are spotted near Coors Field. The MLBPA fired two executives for cause this week. Longtime Angels star Garret Anderson dies at the age of 53. Are the balls juiced in *MLB the Show*? The Houston Texas sign defensive end Will Anderson to a three-year, $150 million deal. Can history help predict who will the NBA title? The shoe manufacturer Allbirds makes a baffling and ridiculed pivot to artificial intelligence. Why robots can’t replace guide dogs. Original ideas are starting to find success at the box office. Your song of the day is Electric Light Orchestra with *Rock n’ Roll Is King.*