Royals finish 2025 with winning record but miss playoffs, eyeing 2026

The Kansas City Royals closed the 2025 season with an 82-80 record, securing a second consecutive winning season but falling short of the playoffs. The team won twice in its final series in West Sacramento, first beating the Oakland Athletics 4-2 on Saturday and then posting a 9-2 victory Sunday to finish above .500.

Saturday’s win was powered by veteran starter Michael Wacha, who allowed two hits over six scoreless innings while striking out five and walking three. The Royals manufactured early offense, taking advantage of an errant throw and a two-run bloop double by Vinnie Pasquantino, who finished the season with 113 RBIs. The bullpen followed with scoreless work from John Schreiber, Angel Zerpa, Jonathan Bowlan and closer Carlos Estévez, who recorded his 42nd save to lead all major league relievers this year.

In the season finale, Kansas City supplied a heavier dose of offense. Carter Jensen had a three hit day, including a 482-foot home run, and Mike Yastrzemski hit multiple homers. Cole Ragans started on a pitch count but struck out eight in 4.1 innings. Daniel Lynch IV and relievers Luis Avila and others shut down late threats to preserve the margin. The victories capped...