The Kansas City Royals had their first spring training game on Friday against the Texas Rangers and UMKC students are eager to see the team defy expectations once again
The 2024 Major League Baseball season was a significant year for Kansas City Royals fans with the team reaching their highest win total in the past nine years. The team also secured a postseason spot for the first time since their 2015 World Series Championship.
Junior business administration major Brigham Calais believes the Royals have a lot of opportunities to improve on last season’s performance. “Watch out for the Royals,” said Calais, “We are going to be a sleeper team this season just like we were last season.”
Many students have found it difficult to engage with the team, whether due to a lack of interest or the challenge of appealing to college-aged fans.
“I’m not really into baseball at all, but I would go for my friends if they really like it,” said junior biology major Vickie Pham. “I feel like they should advertise more and give out free jerseys like they have in previous years.”
Despite their struggle to engage many college students, the Royals are very active on social media platforms and share updates, highlights, and behind the scenes content throughout spring training. Fans can tune in to 96.5 The Fan on the radio or download the MLB app for comprehensive coverage of games. If fans want to watch games live, they are streamed on the FanDuel Sports Network website or app.
Students who have played baseball from a young age are particularly enthusiastic about how the Royals will perform during spring training. “I am very excited, said freshman business administration major Joel Garcia. “I have been seeing that the last couple of years we have been getting better and better, especially with Bobby Witt Jr.”
Players like Bobby Witt Jr. have captivated young fans. Students are drawn to players who have talent and potential to grow. Witt has resonated with those who enjoy fast-paced sports and seek exciting plays to keep fans engaged.
The Royals shortstop is a key part for many of the successes the team has gained recently. “We made the playoffs,” said Garcia. “At least we weren’t last in the league.”
As the team looks to continue building on recent successes, many believe the key to keeping momentum lies in the hands of their pitchers. “The Royals success will largely depend on if the pitching staff can stay healthy and consistent,” said Calais.
The Royals will once again be hosting “UMKC Day at the K” in 2025. The promotion will be a blue-and-white hoodie that features both UMKC and the Royals for those that have a theme ticket.
jirbxh@umsystem.edu
