(David Dermer-Imagn Images)

The Kansas City Royals are fresh off a sweep of the Los Angeles Angels. However, the team has struggled overall this season. At 11-17 overall, Kansas City is tied with the Chicago White Sox for last place in the American League Central division.

So, what is going wrong for the team?

The Royals have questions all around the roster. The offense has been far from stellar, but it is close to league average in a number of statistics. Pitching has been an issue, though.

The Royals have a 4.62 ERA in 2026. That mark is good for 25th in all of MLB. Kansas City needs a better overall pitching performance in order to bounce back.

Royals' Pitching Struggles

The entire pitching staff is not struggling. However, a number of talented hurlers have endured down seasons.

Cole Ragans has a 5.00 ERA so far in 2026. It is too early to panic, but Kansas city needs Ragans to be an ace. He is one of the best pitchers in baseball when he is on top of his game.

Noah Cameron has also failed to find success for the most part, as he has pitched to a 5.13 ERA. Meanwhile, Kris Bubic has a 4.08 ERA as of this story's publication.

Seth Lugo (2.63 ERA) and Michael Wacha (2.51 ERA) have both performed well. The veterans are getting the job done, but the rest of the rotation needs to step up.