4 KC Royals players who won't be back for 2025

Yuli Gurriel won't be back with the KC Royals

After Vinnie Pasquantino's thumb injury ruled him out for at least a few weeks, the Royals acquired Yuli Gurriel on August 31 in a minor-league trade with Atlanta Braves. It was a last-minute move to ensure they had a backup plan if Pasquantino wasn't back for the playoffs, and even though he was, Gurriel ended up being one of the team's most effective offensive players over the last few weeks of the regular season.

Having immediately been promoted to the majors after being acquired by the Royals, Gurriel proved to be a reliable hitter in the lineup. He slashed .241/.338/.296 with 6 RBI in 18 regular-season games (54 at-bats), and played in all six of Kansas City's playoff games, managing 4 hits. Still, the two-time World Series Champion isn't going to be back with the Royals next season.

At 40 years old, Gurriel brought a mature energy to the Royals' clubhouse — particularly during their postseason campaign — and he was a crucial part of the offense when it was otherwise shaky. Still, his 4 hits in the playoffs just weren't enough to prove he's worth a new contract for 2025, and while the Royals should be appreciative for what he brought to the team, it's clear his time in Kansas City was always intended to be brief.