Wins above replacement, or WAR, is the most useful statistic for estimating a player’s value. This analytical metric was not accessible until rather recently. I’ll explain the differences in the WAR formula between pitchers and position players in simple terms. WAR calculates how many wins a player may have above a league average player by taking into account position, stadium, and every facet of the game, including batting, baserunning, and fielding. Let’s examine the top 24 players in Kansas City Royals history using WAR to assist us rate them.
In a 1969 trade with the Mets, the Royals acquired centre fielder Amos Otis, who went on to become perhaps the most accomplished outfield player in franchise history. Otis slashed.280/.347/.433 with 193 home runs, 992 RBI, 365 doubles, 65 triples, and 340 stolen bases in 14 seasons with Kansas City. At one of the most crucial positions on the diamond, he earned three Gold Gloves, twice led the American League in doubles, and played for Kansas City in five all-star games.
