While the Seth Lugo extension is as much about 2026 and 2027 as anything, swapping Hoffman for Grichuk is at least a hint the Royals view themselves as squarely in the race heading into August. At this point, I’d be shocked if they turned around and traded away Carlos Estevez or subtracted from the 26-man roster at all. This may well be it for Kansas City’s deadline moves as there’s simply not a lot in the tank that wouldn’t negatively impact the future — which is where the focus should still lay. Between the Grichuk-Hoffman swap and last summer’s flurry of veteran additions, however, I suspect Picollo may shop for another bargain hitter or two.
Royals Rumblings - News for July 29, 2025
