The Kansas City Royals are set to modify the dimensions of Kauffman Stadium, making significant changes to enhance the ballpark’s suitability for power hitters. According to a report by ESPN, the team plans to bring the outfield walls in by approximately 10 feet for the upcoming 2024 season. This decision aims to create a more balanced playing environment, reducing the stadium’s reputation as a challenging venue for home runs.
The Royals are expected to make an official announcement regarding these changes on Tuesday. While center field will remain at 410 feet, the team intends to shorten the fences in the power alleys from 389 feet to 379 feet. The adjustments will continue towards the corners, which will see the fences tapering down by 9 to 10 feet, while the 330-foot foul poles will stay unchanged. Additionally, the height of the outfield fence will be reduced from 10 feet to 8.5 feet.
Kauffman Stadium has historically been one of the least favorable parks for home runs, ranking as a top-five venue for doubles and triples, but among the bottom five for home runs. In 2025, the Royals managed to hit only 70 home runs at home, placing them 27th in Major League Baseball, compared to 89 on the road, where they ranked 18th.
This revamping is expected to benefit the Royals’ young power hitters, particularly Jac Caglianone and Vinnie Pasquantino. Last season, Pasquantino, a left-handed slugger known for his pull power, hit 14 home runs at Kauffman Stadium, while he recorded 18 home runs away from home. Veteran catcher Salvador Perez has also experienced a significant disparity, with 171 of his 303 career home runs coming away from Kauffman Stadium, accounting for 56% of his total.
This is not the first time the Royals have altered the stadium’s dimensions. They previously moved the walls in by 10 feet in 1995, only to revert to the original dimensions in 2004. The current adjustments follow extensive research by the team’s front office, which recommended the changes to create a more neutral playing field.
Kauffman Stadium, which opened in 1973, is part of a complex that includes Arrowhead Stadium, home to the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are set to relocate to a new facility in Kansas in 2031, while the Royals are also exploring options for a new stadium, with a proposed $2 billion facility near downtown Kansas City.
These changes mark an important step for the Royals as they aim to enhance their competitive edge and appeal to fans, while also preparing for a future that may include a new home for the franchise.
