3 best front office decisions that fueled KC Royals' surge toward 2024 postseason

KC Royals prioritized veterans over internal options by trading for Michael Lorenzen

Developing players within the farm system is crucial to a team's long-term success — but sometimes, a team needs an experienced veteran to get the job done. On July 29, the Royals announced they had traded fan-favorite prospect Walter Pennington to the Texas Rangers in exchange for 2023 All-Star pitcher Michael Lorenzen, and while many fans were sad to see Pennington leave the organization after making just one appearance in the majors, Lorenzen ultimately helped the Royals more than Pennington ever could've over the next few months.

In seven appearances (six starts) during the regular season with the Royals, Lorenzen went 2-0 with a 1.57 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 22 strikeouts in 28.2 innings of work. He held opposing batters at an average of just .183, adding reinforcements to the starting rotation over the last few months of the season. Lorenzen also made two appearances out of the bullpen during the Royals' playoff campaign, accumulating a 3.86 ERA with 3 strikeouts.

Without an extension from the Royals, Lorenzen will become a free agent this offseason. While it's unclear whether or not Kansas City will offer a him a deal for 2025, adding the veteran to the rotation for the last part of 2024 was a strong move to get the team to the playoffs.