The Royals are packing their bags and soon will be off to spring training in Surprise, Arizona. But before they leave, there was a matter of greeting fans and chatting up the season at Royals Rally at Kauffman Stadium.

On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR, beat writer Jaylon Thompson and columnist Vahe Gregorian discussed the upcoming season and how the Royals can return to their playoff form of two years ago.

Also, you’ll hear from chairman and CEO John Sherman on new stadium progress, general manager J.J. Picollo on where the team needs to improve and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino on how he views shorter distances to the fences at The K this season.

After a break, Gregorian shares thoughts on his Pro Football Hall of Fame vote. The 2026 Class will be revealed on Thursday, and last week six-time Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Belichick learned he would not be part of it. Gregorian explained in a column the circumstances of Belichick not receiving his vote.

Rundown (timestamps are approximate)

1:07 — John Sherman talks stadium update

9:21 — JJ Picollo on the lessons learned last season

14:20 — Vinnie Pasquantino on The K’s shortened fences

21:32 — Vahe on why he didn’t vote for Bill Belichick

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