Three players who could be extended next by the Royals

This commitment goes beyond Witt. The Royals had been one of the more active teams in free agency, revamping their pitching staff while adding pieces to the lineup. However, none of those signings are long-term options. The Royals need to find other pieces for their present and future core. Witt may be the first domino to drop - here are three other candidates that the Royals could extend.

1. Vinnie Pasquantino

It is a good sign for a future deal when the player says he always wanted to spend his career with only one organization. Pasquantino said exactly that on MLB Network back in the middle of May. He has had a strong start to his career, posting a .272/.355/.444 batting line with 19 homers and 27 doubles in his 558 plate appearances. Pasquantino makes consistent contact, will draw a walk and has the potential to be a star. While the Royals will want to see how he returns from the torn labrum in his right shoulder, Pasquantino could be a building block to pair with Witt in the lineup.

2. Cole Ragans

Ragans could not have made a better first impression if he wanted to. Acquired by the Royals as part of the return for Aroldis Chapman, Ragans immediately displayed top-of-the-rotation potential. He posted a 2.64 ERA and a 1.074 WHiP over his 71.2 innings in Kansas City, striking out 89 batters with 27 walks. The Royals will want to see if he can replicate that success; if he does, he could be that frontline starter they have needed for years.

3. Brady Singer

Singer was a clear extension candidate heading into the 2023 season as he appeared to be one of the bright spots on the Royals. He took a drastic step back last year, posting a 5.52 ERA and a 1.447 WHiP over his 159.2 innings, striking out 133 batters with 49 walks. However, there is hope he can return to form. Singer stated that the new pitching coaches tried to change how he pitched. If he can find his comfort level again, he also has the potential to be a frontline starter. The Royals need that type of pitcher going forward.