If Kansas City Royals fans need a reason for optimism, it’s growing in bunches down on the farm. The franchise turned an ideological corner around the 2023 MLB Draft, but as with most things in baseball development, the results take years—not days.
Patience will be key as investments in players like pitcher Steven Zobac, infielder Javier Vaz, and third baseman Austin Charles inch closer to potentially paying off. The draft is one beast to follow. But the biggest lottery tickets often come via the international free agent market—and in right-hander Kendry Chourio, the Royals may finally have a winning ticket.