Royals

Royals have talented young players. Should team consider long-term contracts? Podcast

Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. (7) congratulates Michael A. Taylor (2) at home plate after Taylor hit a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Aug. 28, 2022. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)
Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. (7) congratulates Michael A. Taylor (2) at home plate after Taylor hit a solo home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, Aug. 28, 2022. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley) AP

Is the time right to consider long-term contracts to promising young Kansas City Royals players like Bobby Witt Jr.? We put the question to beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam McDowell on today’s SportsBeat KC podcast?

Long-terms deals can provide security and risk, and the Royals have been here before, although not with a rookie. From their 2014-15 pennant years, they signed Alex Gordon to an extension, but not others.

We also discuss who the Royals should consider bringing up when rosters expand later this week, and how next year’s schedule, which includes fewer games against AL Central opponents and more against National League teams, impacts the Royals.

Blair Kerkhoff
The Kansas City Star
Blair Kerkhoff has covered sports for The Kansas City Star since 1989. He was elected to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
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