Royals shake up hitting staff after disappointing 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 1:35 PM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026
Following a disappointing 69-93 finish in 2026, Kansas City Royals General Manager J.J. Picollo announced changes to the hitting staff. Alec Zumwalt, who has been with the organization since 2013, is reassigned and will remain as senior director of hitting performance but will not coach from the dugout. Picollo stated that improving run production is a priority, as the team's offense struggled to find its rhythm, ranking poorly in runs scored despite decent offensive metrics. The Royals aim for long-term improvement and plan to add another assistant hitting coach to the staff for the upcoming season.
- •Royals finished 2026 with a 69-93 record.
- •Alec Zumwalt reassigned but remains in the organization.
- •Offense ranked 22nd in MLB in runs scored.
- •Picollo emphasizes need for better execution from players.
- •Royals plan to add another assistant hitting coach.
- 1:35 PMYahoo Sports — Picollo Shakes Up Royals Hitting Staff After 69-93 Season
"Royals GM J.J. Picollo addresses the disappointing 2026 finish, explains the move on Alec Zumwalt, and outlines the plan for a better 2027 squad.
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