Sources: Royals to move in fences at Kauffman Stadium

Sources: Royals to move in fences at Kauffman Stadium

ESPN sports

Key Points:

  • The Kansas City Royals are moving most of their outfield fence in by 10 feet to create a more neutral ballpark that favors home runs, aiming to change Kauffman Stadium's reputation as a tough venue for hitters.
  • The fence adjustments include shortening the power alleys from 389 to 379 feet and reducing fence height from 10 feet to 8½, while center field remains at 410 feet, maintaining a nearly symmetrical layout.
  • The decision follows extensive analysis by the Royals' analytics department, led by VP of research Dr. Daniel Mack, who used advanced data on wind, temperature, and batted-ball metrics to find fence dimensions that yield league-average offensive production.
  • Royals GM J.J. Picol