The Kansas City Royals have been an interesting team this season. After 106 losses in 2023, the team has become a serious contender to win the American League championship.
In fact, Kansas City is only one game behind the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central. But they could be even better in 2025.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted that Kansas City will need a third baseman and suggested they should “at least make a call to Matt Chapman” during the free agency period.
Chapman, 31, had a strong season with the San Francisco Giants. The veteran hitter hit 20 home runs, scored 63 runs, stole 13 bases and posted a .764 OPS despite a .242 batting average.
In the winter, he signed a three-year, $54 million contract with the Giants that included opt-out clauses for 2025 and 2026. He is expected to exercise his opt-out clause at the end of this season and return to free agency.
The 31-year-old would greatly strengthen the Royals’ lineup. They would have a solid, experienced hitter who could compete alongside MVP candidate Bobby Witt Jr.
Kansas City has proven its will to win, and signing someone like Chapman would only confirm that the team intends to compete for several more years. It remains to be seen if the Royals, operating in their small market, will hand over the long-term contract Chapman likely wants, but they would be an interesting fit for him.
We’ll see if they decide to target the bat.
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