Kansas City Royals: Ned Yost to return in 2019

The Kansas City Royals were hoping that Ned Yost would return to manage the team in 2019. On Sunday, they announced that he will, in fact, be coming back.

The Kansas City Royals are a team in flux. They have begun what will be an extensive rebuilding project, one that could have a great deal of growing pains as the young players develop. However, a strong September, where the Royals finished with a winning record, gives hope to a team that ended 2018 with a 58-104 record, earning the second overall draft pick.

However, there will be continuity in at least one aspect. After stating that they hoped manager Ned Yost would return to manage the team next season, that dream has come true. On Sunday, the Royals announced that Yost has signed a one year extension, keeping him on the bench in 2019.

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This quest for continuity goes beyond Yost’s record as the Royals manager. He has overseen one of the brightest eras in franchise history, guiding the team to consecutive World Series appearances, and bringing home the 2015 championship. Overall, in his nine seasons at the helm, Yost has a 687-736 record, a number that may not be overwhelming, but a solid performance considering some of the young rosters he has had to work with.

That will be the case again in 2019 as the Royals rebuild. Yost will again have a chance to work his magic with the youngsters, some of whom have already begun to impress. Whit Merrified has become a solid piece for the Royals future, greatly surpassing expectations. Adalberto Mondesi suddenly looks like a star, and was good enough for Alcides Escobar to finally see the bench. Brad Keller and Jakob Junis could be solid pieces in the middle of the rotation moving forward. And let us not forget the insane power displayed by Ryan O’Hearn.

While the future beyond 2019 is uncertain, bringing Yost back adds another layer beyond the continuity for next season. He can also help develop his successor, stepping back at times while whichever coach will take over grows into the role. It is a chance for Yost to be a mentor, to help select who will be the next in line.

The Kansas City Royals wanted Ned Yost to return for 2019. On Sunday, their wish came true, as Yost signed a one year extension.