History of Kansas City Royals in Timeline
The Kansas City Royals, based in Missouri, are a Major League Baseball team known for their inconsistent performance. While they triumphed in the World Series in 1985 and 2015, their overall track record reveals a mixed bag of successes and struggles. The team experienced a golden era from 1976 to 1985 and a resurgence between 2013 and 2015, but these periods are contrasted by a generally low winning percentage throughout their history.
1955: Previous Major League Team
The Kansas City Athletics, the city's previous major league team, began playing in 1955.
1967: Athletics Relocate
The Kansas City Athletics relocated in 1967, leading to efforts to secure a new team for Kansas City.
1968: Franchise Awarded
Following the relocation of the Athletics, Kansas City was awarded a new franchise in 1968.
1968: "Royals" Name Chosen
The Kansas City Royals selected their name in 1968 through a fan contest, with the winning entry referencing Missouri's livestock industry and the American Royal parade.
April 8, 1969: Inaugural Game
The Kansas City Royals won their inaugural game against the Minnesota Twins on April 8, 1969.
1969: New Team Begins Play
Due to pressure from Senator Symington, the new Kansas City baseball team began playing earlier than initially planned in 1969.
1969: Team Founded
The Kansas City Royals were founded in 1969 as an expansion franchise.
1970: Royals' Worst Season Since 1970
In 1990, the Kansas City Royals concluded the season with a 75-86 record, marking their worst performance since 1970. This dismal outcome highlighted the team's struggles despite high expectations.
1971: Uniform Changes in 1971
In 1971, the Kansas City Royals altered their road uniforms by changing 'Kansas City' to block lettering and adding a roundel with the team logo on the left sleeve. The blue cap with 'KC' stitched in front was also introduced and remains in use today.
1971: First Winning Season
The Kansas City Royals had their first winning season in 1971 under manager Bob Lemon.
1971: Original Block 'Kansas City' Wordmark
The Kansas City Royals used the block 'Kansas City' wordmark from 1971 to 1982, which was reintroduced in their 2022 uniform set.
1971: Initial Expansion Plan
The initial plan was for Kansas City's new baseball team to begin playing in 1971.
April 10, 1973: Move to Kauffman Stadium
The Kansas City Royals began playing at Kauffman Stadium on April 10, 1973.
1973: Switch to Pullover Uniforms
In 1973, the Kansas City Royals transitioned to pullover uniforms. The road uniform was changed to a powder blue base with white letters.
1973: All-Star Game at Royals Stadium
The All-Star Game was hosted at Royals Stadium in 1973.
1973: New Uniforms and Stadium
The Kansas City Royals adopted their "powder blue" road uniforms and moved to Royals Stadium in 1973.
1975: Whitey Herzog Hired as Manager
In 1975, Whitey Herzog was hired as the manager of the Kansas City Royals, leading the team to their first three playoff appearances before being fired in 1979.
1975: Herzog Becomes Manager
Whitey Herzog became the manager of the Kansas City Royals in 1975.
1976: Royals Face Yankees in 1976 ALCS
In 1976, the Kansas City Royals faced the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) but were defeated.
1976: First Playoff Appearance
In 1976, the Kansas City Royals made their first playoff appearance under the management of Whitey Herzog.
1976: Dominant Decade Begins
The Kansas City Royals began a dominant stretch of ten years in 1976, marked by frequent playoff appearances and a World Series win.
1976: Playoff Streak Begins
The Kansas City Royals began a period of frequent playoff appearances in 1976.
1976: Division Championship
The Kansas City Royals won the first of three consecutive division championships in 1976.
1976: Royals Break Reds' Postseason Winning Streak
The Kansas City Royals, during their remarkable 2014 playoff run, broke the Cincinnati Reds' 1976 record for the longest multi-year postseason winning streak, solidifying their place in baseball history.
1977: Royals Face Yankees in 1977 ALCS
In 1977, the Kansas City Royals faced the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) but were defeated.
1977: Second Playoff Appearance
In 1977, the Kansas City Royals, managed by Whitey Herzog, made their second playoff appearance.
1977: 100-Win Season
The Kansas City Royals had their only 100-win season in 1977.
1978: Third Playoff Appearance
In 1978, the Kansas City Royals achieved their third playoff appearance under the management of Whitey Herzog.
1978: Addition of Names on Uniforms
In 1978, the Kansas City Royals added player names to their uniforms.
1978: Royals Face Yankees in 1978 ALCS
In 1978, the Kansas City Royals faced the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) but were defeated.
1978: Division Championship
The Kansas City Royals won their third consecutive division championship in 1978.
1979: Whitey Herzog Fired
In 1979, after leading the Kansas City Royals to their first three playoff appearances, manager Whitey Herzog was fired.
1980: Royals Defeat Yankees in 1980 ALCS
In 1980, the Kansas City Royals defeated the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) to advance to the World Series.
1980: First World Series Appearance
The Kansas City Royals reached their first World Series in 1980, losing to the Philadelphia Phillies.
1980: ALCS Victory and World Series Appearance
The Kansas City Royals, under new manager Jim Frey and with George Brett having a legendary .390 season, won the ALCS and reached the World Series in 1980.
1980: Royals Achieve Franchise-Best Record
The year 1980 marked a historic season for the Kansas City Royals as they set a new franchise record for wins. This achievement solidified their status as a dominant force in the American League and raised expectations for future success.
1982: End of Original Block 'Kansas City' Wordmark
The Kansas City Royals used the block 'Kansas City' wordmark until 1982, before it was reintroduced in their 2022 uniform set.
July 1983: The Pine Tar Incident
The "Pine Tar Incident" occurred in July 1983, involving George Brett's controversial home run due to the amount of pine tar on his bat.
1983: Return to Buttoned Uniforms
In 1983, the Kansas City Royals returned to wearing buttoned uniforms. The powder blue uniform saw 'Royals' in script replace 'Kansas City,' and both uniforms added numbers on the left chest.
1983: 1983 Pine Tar Incident
The 1983 Pine Tar Incident between the Kansas City Royals and New York Yankees became a significant event in their rivalry history.
1983: Transitional Changes for the Royals
The Kansas City Royals underwent significant changes in 1983 as owner Ewing Kauffman sold 49% of his interest to Avron Fogelman, and John Schuerholz became the general manager. Schuerholz quickly began to strengthen the farm system, focusing on promising pitchers like Bud Black, Danny Jackson, Mark Gubicza, David Cone, and Bret Saberhagen, alongside talented hitters like Kevin Seitzer.
1984: Royals Secure Division Championship but Fall Short in ALCS
The Kansas City Royals clinched their fifth division championship in 1984, buoyed by a strong pitching rotation featuring young talents like Saberhagen, Gubicza, Leibrandt, Black, and Jackson, alongside the consistent batting prowess of George Brett. However, their playoff run was cut short in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) by the Detroit Tigers, who went on to win the World Series.
1985: Royals Maintain Strong Performance in the Late 1980s
Following their 1985 World Series victory, the Kansas City Royals continued to be a force in the American League West, consistently achieving winning records. This period also saw the emergence of rising stars like Bo Jackson, Tom Gordon, and Kevin Seitzer.
1985: Bret Saberhagen's First Cy Young Award
In 1985, Bret Saberhagen of the Kansas City Royals won the AL Cy Young Award, becoming one of the few Royals pitchers to achieve this honor.
1985: Royals End World Series Drought
In 1985, the Kansas City Royals achieved a historic milestone by reaching the World Series, their first appearance since 1985. This achievement marked a triumphant return to baseball's biggest stage for the franchise.
1985: Royals Win 1985 World Series
In 1985, the Kansas City Royals achieved a significant victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series, known as the 'I-70 Series.' This victory solidified a true rivalry between the two teams.
1985: Royals Clinch Sixth Division Title in Ten Years
Led by Bret Saberhagen's Cy Young Award-winning season and a standout performance from George Brett, the Kansas City Royals secured their sixth division title in a decade in 1985. Despite facing deficits in both rounds of the playoffs, the Royals showcased their resilience, with notable contributions from Brett's two home runs and a game-changing triple from Jim Sundberg in Game 7 of the ALCS against the Toronto Blue Jays, ultimately securing their place in the World Series.
1985: The I-70 Series: Royals Capture Their First World Series Title
The 1985 World Series, dubbed the "I-70 Series" due to the proximity of the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals, saw the Royals triumph in a thrilling seven-game series. Despite trailing 3-1, the Royals rallied, with key wins in Games 5 and 6, the latter marked by a controversial call by umpire Don Denkinger. Game 7 saw a dominant performance by Bret Saberhagen, leading the Royals to an 11-0 victory and their first-ever World Series championship.
1985: First World Series Championship
The Kansas City Royals won their first World Series championship in 1985.
1985: Royals' Legacy of Championships
The Kansas City Royals' 1985 World Series title holds a special place in the franchise's history, marking a period of triumph and etching their name into baseball lore. This victory serves as a reminder of their potential for greatness.
1985: Royals' Championship Legacy Continues to Inspire
The Kansas City Royals' 1985 World Series title serves as a source of inspiration for the franchise and its fans. It represents a time of triumph and serves as a reminder of the team's ability to achieve greatness on baseball's biggest stage. This victory continues to be celebrated and remembered as a defining moment in Royals history.
1985: Playoff Streak Ends
The Kansas City Royals' period of frequent playoff appearances ended in 1985.
1986: Postseason Drought Begins
The Kansas City Royals' 28-season postseason drought began in 1986.
1987: Dick Howser's Number Retired
In 1987, the Kansas City Royals retired former manager Dick Howser's number 10 following his death.
1989: Royals Miss Playoffs Despite Strong Season
Despite finishing with a 92-70 record in 1989, the third-best in the major leagues, the Kansas City Royals fell short of playoff contention. This was largely due to the dominance of the Oakland Athletics, who went on to win the World Series that year.
1989: Royals Bolster Pitching with Key Acquisitions
Aiming to challenge the Oakland Athletics in 1990, the Royals made significant moves to strengthen their pitching staff. They signed Mark Davis, the 1989 National League Cy Young Award winner, to a then-record-breaking contract and added starting pitcher Storm Davis, who was coming off an impressive 19-win season. Despite the promising acquisitions, the Royals faced setbacks due to injuries and underwhelming performances.
1989: Bret Saberhagen's Second Cy Young Award
In 1989, Bret Saberhagen of the Kansas City Royals won his second AL Cy Young Award, further solidifying his legacy with the team.
1989: Royals' Win Total Unmatched
The Kansas City Royals' 1989 season stood as their highest win total until 2014 when they matched that record with 89 wins. This accomplishment highlighted the team's resurgence and signaled a potential shift in their fortunes.
1990: Royals Face Leadership Void as Schuerholz Departs
Adding to the challenges faced by the Kansas City Royals in the early 1990s was the departure of General Manager John Schuerholz in 1990. His exit created a void in leadership, further impacting the team's direction during a period of transition.
1990: George Brett Makes History with Third Batting Title
In 1990, George Brett, a cornerstone of the Kansas City Royals, etched his name in baseball history by winning his third batting title. This achievement made him the first player ever to secure batting titles in three different decades, solidifying his legacy as one of the game's greats.
1990: Royals Face Setbacks Despite Promising Acquisitions
The Kansas City Royals experienced a challenging 1990 season. Despite high hopes for their pitching rotation, which included newly signed Cy Young Award winner Mark Davis and Storm Davis, both players underperformed. Coupled with critical bullpen injuries, the Royals struggled, finishing with a disappointing 75-86 record, their worst since 1970.
1991: Last Use of Powder Blue Pants Before 2023
The last time the Kansas City Royals wore powder blue pants with their uniforms was in the 1991 season, before reintroducing the combination in 2023.
1991: Bo Jackson's Career Cut Short by Injury
Tragedy struck the Royals in 1991 when star player Bo Jackson suffered a career-ending hip injury while playing football in the offseason. The severity of the injury forced the Royals to waive Jackson during spring training, marking a significant loss for the team.
1992: Resumed Wearing Grey Uniforms
In 1992, the Kansas City Royals resumed wearing grey uniforms on the road, retaining the 'Royals' script and letters in blue with white trim.
1992: Royals Remain Competitive Despite Lack of Playoff Appearances
The Kansas City Royals continued to be a competitive force from 1990 to 1992, consistently posting winning records. However, despite their consistent performance, the Royals were unable to secure a playoff berth during this period.
1993: Ewing Kauffman, Royals Owner, Passes Away
The Kansas City Royals organization mourned the loss of their beloved owner, Ewing Kauffman, in 1993. Kauffman's death marked the end of an era for the team and triggered a complex succession plan aimed at keeping the Royals in Kansas City.
1994: Royals Implement Payroll Reduction Strategy
In a strategic move to cut costs, the Kansas City Royals began reducing their payroll in 1994. This involved trading key players like pitcher David Cone and outfielder Brian McRae, signaling a shift in the team's financial approach.
1994: Royals Join Newly Formed AL Central
As part of a league reorganization in 1994, the Kansas City Royals were shifted from the American League West to the newly created American League Central. This realignment placed them alongside the Chicago White Sox, Minnesota Twins, Cleveland Indians, and Milwaukee Brewers, who transitioned from the AL East.
1994: David Cone's Cy Young Award
In 1994, David Cone of the Kansas City Royals won the AL Cy Young Award, joining Bret Saberhagen as one of the few Royals pitchers to earn this distinction.
1994: Last Winning Record Before 2003
In 1994, the Kansas City Royals had their last winning record before entering a prolonged period of losing seasons, which ended in 2003.
1994: Introduction of Blue Alternate Uniform
In 1994, the Kansas City Royals introduced a blue alternate uniform featuring 'Royals' script and letters in white. The road uniforms were also tweaked to feature 'Kansas City' in block letters.
1994: Royals' Winning Streak Ends Amidst Strike-Shortened Season
The 1994 Major League Baseball strike brought a premature end to a period of consistent winning records for the Kansas City Royals. Although they had remained competitive up until that point, the strike disrupted their momentum and marked a turning point for the franchise.
1995: Period of Struggle
The Kansas City Royals entered a period of struggle in 1995, with only one winning season until 2012.
1995: Royals Continue Payroll Reduction, Trading Key Players
The Kansas City Royals sustained their payroll reduction strategy in 1995, further cutting down their roster expenses. This initiative marked a significant departure from the team's previous spending habits.
April 5, 1996: Sluggerrr Makes First Appearance
On April 5, 1996, Sluggerrr, the mascot of the Kansas City Royals, made his first appearance. Sluggerrr is a lion who engages with fans and players during game days.
1996: Royals' Payroll Slashed in Half
By 1996, the Kansas City Royals' payroll had been drastically reduced from $40.5 million in 1994, the fourth-highest in MLB, to $18.5 million, the second-lowest in the league. This drastic cutback reflected a significant change in the team's financial strategy.
1997: Declined Opportunity to Switch to the National League
In 1997, the Kansas City Royals declined the opportunity to switch to the National League as part of a realignment plan to introduce the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Devil Rays as expansion teams. The Milwaukee Brewers made the switch instead.
1998: Brewers Move to NL Central, Tigers Join AL Central
In 1998, the American League Central underwent another change as the Milwaukee Brewers switched to the National League Central. Filling the void left by the Brewers, the Detroit Tigers joined the AL Central, moving over from the AL East.
1999: Miles Prentice's Bid for the Royals
In 1999, Miles Prentice, a lawyer and minor league baseball owner, emerged as a potential buyer for the Kansas City Royals, pledging to keep the team in Kansas City. However, his initial bid of $75 million was rejected by MLB without a clear explanation.
1999: Franchise-low Winning Percentage
In 1999, the Kansas City Royals experienced a significant downturn, setting a franchise-low with a .398 winning percentage and a 64-97 record. The team's payroll had fallen to $16.5 million, leading to an extended downward spiral as most younger players acquired in trades proved to be of little value.
March 13, 2000: Foundation Selects David Glass as New Royals Owner
On March 13, 2000, the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, tasked with upholding Ewing Kauffman's legacy and finding new ownership for the Royals, chose Wal-Mart executive David Glass's bid of $96 million over a higher offer from Miles Prentice. This decision aimed to keep the team in Kansas City, reflecting Kauffman's wishes.
2001: Another 97-loss Season
The Kansas City Royals faced another challenging year in 2001, finishing the season with a 64-97 record, matching their franchise-low winning percentage set in 1999. This continued the team's extended period of struggles.
January 1, 2002: Deadline for Local Ownership of the Royals
Following the death of Royals owner Ewing Kauffman in 1993, a complex succession plan was put in place to ensure the team remained in Kansas City. The plan stipulated a deadline of January 1, 2002, for the team to find a local owner; otherwise, it would be open to outside bids, potentially leading to relocation.
2002: Addition of Black to Color Scheme
Before the 2002 season, the Kansas City Royals added black to their color scheme. The home uniforms were updated to remove blue piping and include black drop shadows.
2002: Set Record for Futility
In 2002, the Kansas City Royals set a new team record for futility by losing 100 games for the first time in franchise history. Manager Tony Muser was fired and replaced by Tony Peña.
July 2003: Last Winning Month Before 2007
In July 2003, the Kansas City Royals had a winning month, which was their last until June 2007. The 2003 season ended with a winning record and marked a temporary end to a period of losing seasons.
August 29, 2003: Royals' Last Division Lead
August 29, 2003, marked a significant date for the Kansas City Royals as it was the last time they held a division lead until August 11, 2014, when they surged past the Detroit Tigers in the AL Central.
2003: Introduction of Sleeveless Uniforms
In 2003, the Kansas City Royals introduced sleeveless uniforms with blue undershirts for home games and black undershirts for grey road uniforms. Black alternate uniforms were also introduced.
2003: First Winning Record Since 1994
In 2003, under manager Tony Peña, the Kansas City Royals achieved their first winning record (83-79) since 1994, finishing in third place in the AL Central. Tony Peña was named the American League Manager of the Year and shortstop Ángel Berroa was named AL Rookie of the Year.
2004: Start of Longest Losing Streak in Team History
From the 2004 season through the 2012 season, the Kansas City Royals posted nine consecutive losing records, the longest streak in team history. In 2004, the team also began a particularly challenging period, losing at least 100 games each year from 2004-2006.
2004: Rebuilding Mode and Key Trades
In 2004, after a disappointing start, the Kansas City Royals entered rebuilding mode, releasing veteran reliever Curtis Leskanic and trading Jason Grimsley and superstar center fielder Carlos Beltrán for prospects.
2005: Franchise Record for Losses and Promising Rookies
In 2005, the Kansas City Royals set a franchise record with a 56-106 record and a 19-game losing streak. Promising seasons from rookies David DeJesus and Zack Greinke provided some hope. Manager Tony Peña quit and was replaced by Bob Schaefer, followed by Buddy Bell.
2005: Franchise Record for Losses
In 2005, the Kansas City Royals set the franchise's all-time record for losses with a 56-106 record, marking a particularly challenging period for the team.
2005: Lowest Win Total Since 2005
The Kansas City Royals' 2018 season was their worst since 2005, finishing with only 58 wins.
2006: Uniform Changes in 2006
In 2006, the Kansas City Royals eliminated black from their uniforms and reverted to wearing sleeved uniforms with arm piping. The crown on the 'KC' shield logo returned to gold, although the black drop shadows were kept until 2019. For a few games in 2006, the black uniforms were used with the 'Kansas City' script before they were retired.
2006: Struggles Continued
In 2006, the Kansas City Royals endured another 100-loss season, becoming the eleventh team in major league history to lose 100 games in three straight seasons. General Manager Allard Baird was fired and replaced by Dayton Moore.
2006: Third Consecutive 100-loss Season
In 2006, the Kansas City Royals lost at least 100 games for the third consecutive season, becoming just the eleventh team in MLB history to do so.
February 22, 2007: Denny Matthews Receives Ford C. Frick Award
On February 22, 2007, Denny Matthews was selected as the 2007 recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award for major contributions to baseball broadcasting.
June 2007: First Winning Month Since 2003
In June 2007, the Kansas City Royals had their first winning month since July 2003, marking a sign of improvement. The team finished the season with a 69-93 record, their first season with fewer than 100 losses since 2003.
2007: Number 29 Not Reassigned
Since 2007, the Kansas City Royals have not reassigned number 29, previously worn by greats Dan Quisenberry and Mike Sweeney.
2007: Royals Surpass Rockies' Postseason Streak
The Kansas City Royals, in 2014, surpassed the Colorado Rockies' 2007 record for consecutive postseason wins in a single year, highlighting their exceptional performance and determination throughout the playoffs.
2008: KCSP (610 AM) Starts Carrying Games
In 2008, KCSP (610 AM) began carrying Kansas City Royals games, later entering into a new four-year deal starting from the 2020 season.
2008: Trey Hillman Becomes Manager and Team Changes
In 2008, the Kansas City Royals hired Trey Hillman as the 15th manager in franchise history. The season began with the release of fan-favorite Mike Sweeney and the trade of Ángel Berroa. Despite a strong start, the team finished in fourth place with a 75-87 record.
2008: Introduction of Powder Blue Alternate in 2008
In 2008, the Kansas City Royals introduced a new powder blue alternate uniform with 'Royals' in blue with white trim and letters in white with blue trim.
2009: Renovated Kauffman Stadium and Zack Greinke's Cy Young Award
In 2009, the Kansas City Royals renovated Kauffman Stadium and started the season strong, finishing April at the top of the AL Central. Despite fading as the season progressed, Zack Greinke won the AL Cy Young Award with a Major League-leading 2.16 ERA.
2010: Powder Blue Cap Introduction in 2010
In 2010, the Kansas City Royals briefly paired their powder blue alternate uniforms with a powder blue cap with a blue brim.
2010: Manager Trey Hillman Fired
In 2010, the Kansas City Royals experienced a rocky start, leading to the firing of manager Trey Hillman after the team's record fell to 12-23. Ned Yost took over as the 16th manager in franchise history, but the team finished the season with a 67-95 record.
2011: Promising Start and Rookie Highlights
In 2011, the Kansas City Royals started strong with a 10-4 record but faded as the season progressed. Rookie Eric Hosmer won AL Rookie of the Month in July and September, and Mike Moustakas tied the longest hitting streak by a Royals rookie with a fifteen-game streak.
December 10, 2012: Royals Trade for James Shields and Wade Davis
On December 10, 2012, the Kansas City Royals made a significant trade to bolster their pitching staff, acquiring James Shields and Wade Davis from the Tampa Bay Rays. In exchange, the Royals sent top prospects Wil Myers, Jake Odorizzi, Mike Montgomery, and Patrick Leonard to Tampa Bay. This trade is widely regarded as a turning point for the Royals' franchise, setting the stage for their return to competitiveness.
2012: 2012 TV Broadcasts
For the 2012 season, Kansas City Royals' televised games were aired on Bally Sports Kansas City, with Ryan Lefebvre and Jeff Montgomery covering about 20 games.
2012: End of Longest Losing Streak in Team History
In 2012, the Kansas City Royals ended their longest losing streak in team history, marking nine consecutive losing records from 2004 through the 2012 season. Despite a slight improvement, the team finished with a 72-90 record.
2012: Slight Improvement
In 2012, the Kansas City Royals showed slight improvement, finishing the season with a 72-90 record. Despite the improvement, the team continued to face challenges.
2012: Uniform Adjustments in 2012
The Kansas City Royals made slight adjustments to the size of the 'Kansas City' script on their road uniforms in 2012 and reversed the color lettering scheme on their powder blue alternates.
2012: Period of Struggle Ends
The Kansas City Royals' period of struggle, with only one winning season since 1995, ended in 2012.
2013: 2013 Article on Pine Tar Incident
In a 2013 article about the 1983 Pine Tar Incident involving the Kansas City Royals and New York Yankees, former players Lou Pinella and George Brett discussed the intense rivalry and mutual dislike between the two teams.
2013: Resurgence
The Kansas City Royals experienced a resurgence in 2013, marking the beginning of a period of success.
2013: Postseason Drought Ends
The Kansas City Royals' 28-season postseason drought ended in 2013.
2013: Royals Achieve First Winning Season Since 2003
The Kansas City Royals, in 2013, achieved their first winning season since 2003, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. They finished the season with a record of 86-76, securing third place in the AL Central. This season demonstrated the team's improvement and hinted at the potential for future success.
July 21, 2014: Royals' Playoff Hopes Hang in the Balance
On July 21, 2014, the Kansas City Royals found themselves at a critical juncture, holding a losing record of 48-50 and trailing the Detroit Tigers by eight games in the AL Central standings. The team's playoff aspirations were hanging in the balance, facing an uphill battle in a competitive division.
October 11, 2014: Royals Continue Postseason Dominance with Extra-Inning Power
On October 11, 2014, the Kansas City Royals extended their postseason success with an 8-6 victory over the Baltimore Orioles in the ALCS. Their ability to perform under pressure was evident as they hit two home runs in the 10th inning, showcasing their resilience and determination.
October 14, 2014: Royals' Pitching Shines in ALCS Game 3
On October 14, 2014, the Kansas City Royals displayed exceptional pitching in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Baltimore Orioles. Jeremy Guthrie delivered a stellar performance, allowing only one run and leading the Royals to a 2-1 victory, pushing them closer to a World Series berth.
2014: New Blue Alternate in 2014
In 2014, the Kansas City Royals added powder blue as a trim color and introduced a new blue alternate uniform featuring the 'KC' insignia.
2014: Royals Secure Home-Field Advantage in World Series
In 2014, the Kansas City Royals secured home-field advantage for the World Series, a testament to their successful regular season and the American League's victory in the All-Star Game. This advantage gave them a significant boost as they aimed for their first championship title since 1985.
2014: Royals Acquire All-Star Pitcher Johnny Cueto
In a strategic move to bolster their pitching staff, the Kansas City Royals acquired All-Star pitcher Johnny Cueto from the Cincinnati Reds in 2015. Cueto's addition aimed to provide a veteran presence and enhance their chances of repeating as World Series champions.
2014: Royals End Playoff Drought with Historic Run
The 2014 season marked the end of a long playoff drought for the Kansas City Royals, as they returned to the postseason for the first time in 29 years. Their journey was nothing short of historic, going from a Wild Card berth to competing in the 2014 World Series.
2014: Second World Series Appearance
The Kansas City Royals reached their second World Series in 2014 but lost to the San Francisco Giants.
2014: Wild Card Berth and World Series Appearance
The Kansas City Royals secured their first wild card berth in 2014 and advanced to the World Series.
2014: Royals Secure Historic Playoff Wins
The Kansas City Royals' 2014 playoff run was marked by historic victories and dramatic comebacks. They defeated the Oakland Athletics in a thrilling 12-inning Wild Card Game, highlighted by a walk-off single by Salvador Pérez. Their momentum continued as they swept the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the ALDS, setting an MLB postseason record with three consecutive extra-inning wins.
2014: Royals Earn Wild Card Berth, Setting the Stage for Future Success
The Kansas City Royals' 2014 wild card entry marked a turning point for the franchise, igniting a period of sustained success. It served as a steppingstone for their remarkable 2015 season.
2015: 2015 World Series Champions' Alternate Uniform
After winning the 2015 World Series, the Kansas City Royals began wearing an alternate white uniform with 'Royals' in metallic gold with blue trim.
2015: Royals Crowned World Series Champions in Thrilling Fashion
In a memorable 2015 World Series, the Kansas City Royals etched their names into baseball history once again. They defeated the New York Mets in five games, culminating in a dramatic 12th-inning victory in Game 5. Catcher Salvador Pérez was named World Series MVP, adding to the team's legacy of clutch performances and championship glory.
2015: Royals Dominate First Half, Gear Up for Championship Defense
The Kansas City Royals entered the 2015 All-Star break with an impressive record of 52-34, leading the American League. Their strong performance in the first half of the season positioned them well for a run at defending their World Series title.
2015: Royals' Resilience Shines in ALDS Comeback
The Kansas City Royals showcased their resilience and never-say-die attitude in the 2015 ALDS against the Houston Astros. Facing elimination, they mounted a remarkable comeback in Game 4, overcoming a 6-2 deficit in the 8th inning to secure a 9-6 victory. This victory epitomized their championship spirit and propelled them to the ALCS.
2015: AL Central Division Title and World Series Championship
The Kansas City Royals won their first AL Central division title and their second World Series championship in 2015.
2015: Second World Series Championship
The Kansas City Royals won their second World Series championship in 2015.
2015: Royals Claim Historic Division Title and World Series Championship
The year 2015 was truly unforgettable for the Kansas City Royals. They achieved a historic milestone by clinching their first division title since 1985 and their first-ever Central division title. Their dominance extended into the postseason, culminating in a remarkable World Series victory against the New York Mets. This triumph marked their first championship since 1985.
April 7, 2016: Royals Trade Prospects for Pitching Depth
On April 7, 2016, the Kansas City Royals made a strategic trade, sending prospects Brandon Finnegan, John Lamb, and Cody Reed to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for experienced pitcher Johnny Cueto. This move aimed to strengthen their pitching rotation and enhance their chances of defending their World Series title.
2016: 2016 TV Ratings
During the 2016 season, Kansas City Royals' primetime TV broadcasts averaged an 11.7 rating and 105,000 viewers.
2016: Underachieving 2016 Season
In 2016, the Kansas City Royals had an underachieving season, finishing with an 81–81 record and missing the playoffs. This year was notable for the debut of future star Whit Merrifield. Injuries plagued the team, resulting in a third-place finish in the division.
2017: Uniform Update in 2017
In 2017, the Kansas City Royals updated their alternate uniform with the team name in blue with gold trim and numbers in gold and blue trim.
2017: 2017 Season and Tragedy
The 2017 season for the Kansas City Royals was marked by the tragic death of pitcher Yordano Ventura in a car accident on January 22. The team honored him with 'ACE 30' patches on their jerseys for the season. The Royals finished with an 80–82 record, again missing the playoffs. Star players Lorenzo Cain and Eric Hosmer became free agents after the season and left the team.
December 1, 2018: Statistics Updated Through December 1, 2018
The Kansas City Royals' statistics were updated through December 1, 2018.
2018: 2018 Rebuild and Whit Merrifield's Emergence
In 2018, the Kansas City Royals began a rebuilding phase, trading Mike Moustakas for prospects and giving significant playing time to young players. The team ended the season with only 58 wins, marking their lowest win total since 2005. Whit Merrifield emerged as a star, leading MLB in hits and stolen bases.
June 3, 2019: Drafting of Bobby Witt Jr.
On June 3, 2019, the Kansas City Royals selected Bobby Witt Jr. with the second pick in the MLB draft. Witt is considered one of the biggest prospects drafted by the team since Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas.
2019: Uniform Update in 2019
In 2019, the Kansas City Royals removed the black drop shadows from their uniforms, finalizing changes that began in 2006.
2019: Change in Ownership
John Sherman became the majority owner of the Kansas City Royals in 2019.
2020: New Four-Year Deal for KCSP (610 AM)
Starting from the 2020 season, KCSP (610 AM) entered into a new four-year deal to continue carrying Kansas City Royals games.
2020: 2020 Season Impacted by COVID-19
The 2020 season for the Kansas City Royals was shortened to 60 games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The team finished with a 26–34 record, placing fourth in the AL Central.
2021: 2021 Season Improvement
In 2021, the Kansas City Royals showed improvement over the previous two seasons, finishing with a 74–88 record. Salvador Pérez led MLB in home runs and RBIs, while Bobby Witt Jr. continued to emerge as a top prospect.
November 2022: Announcement to Leave Kauffman Stadium
In November 2022, Kansas City Royals owner John Sherman announced the team's plan to leave Kauffman Stadium before the end of their lease, which expires after the 2030 MLB season.
2022: 2022 Season Roster Changes and Management Shifts
Beginning with the 2022 season, Dayton Moore was promoted to President of Baseball Operations, and J. J. Picollo started as general manager. Moore was fired by the end of the season. The Royals incorporated several rookies into their lineup and ended the season with a 65–97 record. Mike Matheny was fired after the last game of the season.
2022: New Uniform Set Unveiled for 2022
For the 2022 season, the Kansas City Royals unveiled a fresh uniform set. The primary home uniform remained largely the same but with thicker sleeve stripes. The road primary and blue road alternate uniforms featured the block 'Kansas City' wordmark from 1971 to 1982, including chest numbers.
2022: City Connect Uniforms Introduced in 2022
In 2022, the Kansas City Royals introduced 'City Connect' uniforms to honor Kansas City's 'City of Fountains' moniker. The uniforms featured navy blue tops with powder blue accents and a stylized 'KC' insignia resembling a fountain on the left chest.
June 2023: Final Sites for New Stadium
In June 2023, the Kansas City Royals narrowed down the final sites for their new stadium to the East Village neighborhood and North Kansas City.
2023: Team Valuation and Record
As of 2023, the Kansas City Royals are valued at US $1.2 billion and hold an all-time win-loss record of 4,122-4,547-2 (.475).
2023: Powder Blue Pants Return in 2023
Beginning in 2023, the Kansas City Royals' powder blue alternate uniform was worn with powder blue pants for select games, a combination not seen since the 1991 season.
February 2024: Chosen Site for New Stadium
In February 2024, the Kansas City Royals chose the Crossroads district as the final site for their new stadium.
April 2024: Voters Reject Funding Initiative
In April 2024, Jackson County voters rejected a ballot initiative to help fund the Kansas City Royals' new stadium. The team plans to open the new stadium by the 2027 or 2028 MLB season.
2024: Royals' Flagship Radio Stations in 2024
As of 2024, the Kansas City Royals' flagship radio stations are KFNZ-FM (96.5) and KFNZ (610 AM), with Denny Matthews and Ryan Lefebvre as the primary announcers.
2027: Planned Opening of New Stadium (2027)
The Kansas City Royals plan to open a new stadium with a seating capacity of about 34,000 by the start of the 2027 MLB season.
2028: Planned Opening of New Stadium (2028)
The Kansas City Royals plan to open a new stadium with a seating capacity of about 34,000 by the start of the 2028 MLB season.
2030: Lease Expiration
The Kansas City Royals' lease for Kauffman Stadium is set to expire at the end of the 2030 MLB season.
