The Best Kansas City Royals of All Time
This is a list of the greatest Kansas City Royals ever. The 1970s and 1980s were some of the best years in the history of the Kansas City Royals. Established in 1969, the Royals quickly became a powerhouse, making the playoffs in seven of ten seasons between 1976 and 1985. The Royals played in two World Series and won their only championship in a 7-game triumphant over interstate rivals the St. Louis Cardinals. Those teams featured some of the greatest Royals of all time .
George Brett is the only player to represent the Kansas City Royals in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Spending 21 years manning third base, Brett is in an elite group of players to accumulate 3,000 hits, 300 home runs, and a career .300 batting average. The other players in this group are Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and Stan Musial, all of whom are considered the greatest players in baseball history. To date, Brett is the only player in MLB history to win a batting title in three different decades.
Traditionally, the Royals have had outstanding pitching. Bret Saberhagen, David Cone, Mark Gubicza, and Dan Quisenberry are among the best pitchers who have played for the Royals. Saberhagen won the American League Cy Young in 1985 and 1989.
This is the list of the greatest Kansas City Royals of All Time. If you believe that someone is missing from this list, feel free to add him. Vote and rerank who you think should be considered the greatest Kansas City Royals of All Time
- 1Designated hitter, First baseman, Third baseman
As one of the most iconic figures in Kansas City Royals history, George Brett's impact on the sport of baseball is nothing short of monumental. Known for his exceptional hitting prowess and clutch performances, Brett was a cornerstone of the Royals organization for two decades, instilling a winning mentality that helped drive the franchise to its first World Series title in 1985. Furthermore, his unwavering dedication to the game has not only made him a beloved figure among the Kansas City fanbase, but also solidified his status as a legend in the annals of Major League Baseball.
- 2Catcher
Salvador Pérez is a true embodiment of what it means to be an elite, game-changing catcher in the MLB, demonstrating an unrivaled combination of offensive firepower and defensive mastery behind the plate. A key figure in the Royals' 2015 World Series championship run, Pérez's ability to call games, control the running game, and contribute timely hits proved invaluable to the team's success. His passion for the game and leadership qualities have quickly made him a fan favorite in Kansas City and one of the most respected catchers in the league today.
- 3Pitcher
Few pitchers in Kansas City Royals history can match the impact and sheer dominance of right-handed hurler Bret Saberhagen. Renowned for his precise control and devastating arsenal of pitches, Saberhagen anchored the Royals' pitching staff during their memorable 1985 World Series triumph. His consistent excellence on the mound not only earned him a well-deserved place in the pantheon of all-time Royals greats, but also left an indelible mark on the sport of baseball itself.
- 4Second baseman
Master of the leather and the lumber, Frank White was an invaluable asset to the Kansas City Royals during his 18-year tenure with the club. Known for his spectacular defensive plays at second base and his consistent ability to come through in clutch situations, White helped lead the franchise to two World Series appearances, including a championship in 1985. Today, he remains a beloved figure in Kansas City and a cornerstone of the team's storied history.
- 5Relief pitcher, Pitcher
Dan Quisenberry's unique submarine pitching style and unflappable demeanor in high-pressure situations made him one of the most effective and feared closers in the game during the 1980s. His ability to consistently slam the door shut on the competition played an integral role in Kansas City's 1985 World Series championship, as well as their overall success during that era. To this day, Quisenberry remains a symbol of excellence in relief pitching, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of closers.
- 6Outfielder, Left fielder, Center fielder
As one of the fastest players in MLB history, Willie Wilson left opposing teams reeling with his game-changing speed, both on the basepaths and in the field. Whether tracking down fly balls in the outfield or swiping bases and scoring runs at will, Wilson's impact on the game was impossible to ignore. His thrilling style of play and infectious energy endeared him to Royals fans and continues to serve as a blueprint for future generations of dynamic speedsters.
