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Royals Move Kauffman Stadium Fences In for 2026, Lower Most Walls to 8½ Feet

The club says a data-backed redesign will make the park more neutral by rewarding well‑hit balls without materially hurting its pitchers.

Overview

  • The new layout pulls the corners to 347 feet (LF) and 344 feet (RF), shifts the gaps to 379 feet, keeps center field at 410 feet, and lowers most wall heights from 10 feet to 8½.
  • Construction has begun and the team expects the work to be finished before the March 30 home opener against the Twins.
  • Team research projects fly‑ball run value will rise from the league’s bottom third to the middle third, leading to more home runs and extra‑base hits.
  • The effort was led by vice president of R&D Dr. Daniel Mack and senior analyst Alan Kohler, using weather‑applied ball‑flight and park‑effect modeling.
  • Approximately 150 seats will be added in left field and about 80 drink‑rail spots in right, as the club makes short‑term adjustments while planning for a future new ballpark.