On July 31, 2018, the Kansas City Royals called Ryan O’Hearn up to the majors. O’Hearn proceeded to not only play well, but he made his case to be the starting first basemen for the 2019 season. In 44 games, O’Hearn slashed .262/.353/.597, with 30 RBI’s, 10 doubles, and 12 home runs. The Royals hoped O’Hearn could continue that pace into the following season and give them an all-star performance at first base.
Unfortunately, O’Hearn could not keep up once 2019 came. O’Hearn was on the roster, but he was fighting for the full-time spot at first base.