Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Kansas City Royals Executive Vice President & General Manager J.J. Picollo, who just wrapped up one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Major League Baseball history. Under his leadership, the Royals posted an 86-76 record in 2024—30 wins better than the previous season—earning a postseason berth and making Picollo the runner-up for MLB Executive of the Year.

In this episode, Picollo dives into the Royals’ recent success, including the offseason investments that helped spark the turnaround, such as the franchise-record extension for Bobby Witt Jr. and a league-leading $110M spent on free agents. We also discuss his 19-year journey with the Royals, his emphasis on player development, and how his early coaching days at George Mason and George Washington shaped his leadership style. Picollo offers a unique look into managing a staff, creating organizational alignment, and building a sustainable, winning culture from the ground up.

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J.J. Picollo - Executive Vice President & General Manager, Kansas City Royals 54:52 Share

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J.J. Picollo - Executive Vice President & General Manager, Kansas City Royals