Kansas City just got a whole lot harder to play against. With a champion mindset, unparalleled versatility, and limitless potential, the Royals indeed secured a player who has it all. With a key addition to their lineup, Kansas City didn’t just get a jackpot, but they got a player who can do whatever it takes to win.

Enter Jonathan India! His willingness and ability to adapt to multiple positions make a deadly impact for the Royals. The Ex-Reds’ star brings more than just a phenomenal .253 career average and 63 home runs. He brings his flexibility to play second base, third base, and even left field. “All he has told us is, ‘I just want to win,’” stated Royals General Manager J.J. Picollo. This mindset is exactly what the team needs.

It’s fair to mention that his defensive adaptability is a manager’s dream. His versatility gives Matt Quatraro the freedom to mix and match lineups depending upon matchups, injuries, or game situations. From filling in for a teammate to holding down a position full time, India is ready to do it all.

On the offensive side, his impact is just as big. The way he’s around the field gives Kansas City a level of roster flexibility that not all teams can match. His presence alone creates a pool of opportunities for the whole lineup.
With him in the picture, the Royals can keep defenses on the edge. This will clearly make it even tougher for the opponents to game-plan against them.

India, with his “win at all costs” mindset, can refine the entire approach of the Royals.

KC Royals try Maikel Garcia in the outfield as they explore lineup choices

The Royals are, indeed, stirring things up! Maikel Garcia, who has been an absolute staple at third base, is now getting a shot in center field. He has spent most of his MLB journey in the hot corner, but gladly, during the spring training, he took his first outfield reps against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His role could be evolving as Kansas City explores new defensive combinations.

Garcia played 5 innings in center, which marks a significant shift from his regular spot. While he struggled at the beginning, he settled well as the game went on. He clearly has a knack for molding in real-time, which is why the Royals admire him as an adaptable player.

Interestingly, the Royals still see Kyle Isbel as their usual center fielder, keeping in mind his remarkable defensive performance last season. Kansas City’s front office views Garcia’s adaptability as an asset. Royals general manager J.J. Picollo mentioned the other day that Garcia’s athleticism makes him a strong internal pick for a do-it-all place, similar to what Garrett Hampson provided last season.

Garcia’s best shot at more time in the field might come in the outfield as Bobby Witt Jr. locked in at shortstop and Michael Massey at second. He slashed .231/.281/.332 with 7 home runs in 2024—his defensive skills have always been prominent. His 15 OAA in his rookie season placed him among the best in the league. His stats dropped a bit last season, but he is still above average. And as for his speed, he’s evidently among the fastest on the team.

It looks like Garcia is up for the challenge. He said, “I’m a shortstop and athletic.” “I think I can play any position except catcher,” he added. For now, Kansas City is entirely into maximizing versatility. Massy is on the left, Garcia in the center, and India in rotation. Wow, it’s all part of a bigger plan. And if it goes well, the Royals’ defense could be beyond phenomenal.