Kansas City announced the extension of J.J. Picollo’s contract, which will now run through 2030, along with a club option for the subsequent year. In addition, the team has decided to exercise the option in manager Matt Quatraro’s contract for the 2026 season.

“J.J. is a leading figure in baseball management, and I take pride in having him at the forefront of our championship ambitions,” stated Royals owner John Sherman. “His exceptional leadership skills, curiosity, and innovative approach—merging traditional scouting with the latest advancements in technology—are pivotal as we strive to achieve our ultimate goal.”

Picollo, who has been with the Royals for 19 years, was elevated to general manager in 2021, receiving the executive vice president title the following year. After the 2023 season, he made significant investments in free agency exceeding $110 million and finalized a historic contract extension with Bobby Witt Jr., worth $288.7 million over 11 years, including a three-year option that could raise the total to $377 million.

Thanks to these strategic moves, the Royals concluded the last season with an 87-76 record, securing a postseason spot, marking a rare turnaround as just the third team to reach the playoffs following a season of losses exceeding 100 games. This achievement places Kansas City among only six teams since the 162-game season format was introduced in 1961 that have improved their win total by 30 games from one season to the next. In acknowledgment of his efforts, Picollo placed second in the voting for Executive of the Year.

“Being at the helm of the Royals’ baseball operations is a responsibility I approach with seriousness every day,” Picollo remarked. “Quatraro significantly contributes to our team, especially in promoting collaboration across various departments and always looking for new solutions. I am excited that he will remain with us in the long run. John’s faith in our operations is a source of humility, which enhances our shared mission of enriching what the Royals signify to Kansas City and providing our fans with a championship-caliber team.”

Quatraro also received accolades as the runner-up for AL Manager of the Year.