Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the MLB. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Royals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The 2026 Royals are bad. This fact is inescapable. Some will argue that they’ve had some bad luck, but you don’t become as putrid as the 2026 Royals without both bad luck and bad execution. In fact, you don’t become this bad without bad luck and bad execution in all phases of roster
construction, coaching, and play. But…which aspect is the most to blame for this result?
Is it the roster construction of the front office hampered by what seems clear in retrospect to be an ownership edict not to significantly increase the payroll? Is it the poor bullpen and lineup decisions made by manager Matt Quatraro? Is it the coaching that has led to one of the worst outfield defenses in baseball and numerous baserunning blunders? Or is it the players themselves simply underperforming all reasonable expectations? I have my own thoughts, but before I share them, won’t you please share yours?
