Jonathan India’s renewed confidence is leading to better results for the Royals
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Jonathan India credits refreshed routine and preparation for improved performance.
- India leads Royals in homers and RBIs; .808 OPS ranks second through 10 games.
- Consistent second-base role and health recovery underpin his early-season surge.
There’s a different look in Jonathan India’s eyes these days. The Kansas City Royals second baseman is having fun and feeling comfortable.
He has a new hairstyle. Gone is the long, flowing hair — which accompanied his first five years in the big leagues — and in is a fresh, short cut.
India now plays with a smile and budding excitement. It’s all led to increased production this season.
“I’m very comfortable,” India said. “You know, I don’t look at results. I’ve said it before. I’m big into my preparation, my plan and making sure that I’m good at that rather than trying to produce results. And it’s working out so far.”
India was a major catalyst in the Royals’ 4-2 win over the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field.
He drove in three of the four runs on the night. The biggest hit was a two-run homer in the eighth inning.
“We had a good approach and a good plan,” India said. “You know, we stuck to it. We were just trying to force them to pitch a lot and throw a lot of pitches to us. Even if we got out, we still say eight pitches in an at-bat.”
India has a hit in four of his last six games. He owns a .250 batting average with two home runs and eight RBIs this season.
And he is now 3-for-5 with runners in scoring position.
“That’s what he can do,” Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. said. “That’s himself going out there and being Jonathan India. So it’s great to see him doing that this early. And he is going to continue doing that for sure.”
Last season, India struggled to find his footing. He had a difficult time adjusting to a new environment in Kansas City. The Royals acquired him from the Cincinnati Reds as they swapped right-hander Brady Singer in the deal.
India dealt with nagging injuries and inconsistent production. He sought better results after posting a .669 OPS (on-base plus slugging) in 136 games.
The Royals gave him that opportunity this spring. He no longer had to move across the diamond — sometimes appearing at third base and in left field — defensively. He could remain at second base and hold down the keystone position.
So far, India has done a good job. He worked to improve his routine and offensive plan this offseason. And he has the results to show for it.
India leads the team in home runs and RBIs. His .808 OPS is second behind teammate Maikel Garcia through 10 games.
“I didn’t have a good routine last year,” India said. “I just brought it back to being myself and having that routine in the morning once I wake up until I come to the field.”
The Royals welcome the production. KC is now 5-5 and looking to win the series over the Guardians on Tuesday afternoon.
