KANSAS CITY -- Prior to the Royals' 2-1 loss to the Indians on Sunday, the Royals announced, as expected, that manager Ned Yost would be back for the 2019 season.
Yost, 64, and the Royals agreed to a one-year deal.
"This contract negotiation took all of two minutes," Yost said.
Royals general manager Dayton Moore had hinted all season that it was Yost's decision whether to return or not.
"We're at a point in time right now where we think continuity is even more crucial than it has been in the past," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said. "We've seen the improvement with a lot of the players on the field right now. Really pleased with the coaching staff. Ned's been a huge part of the success of this organization. We feel it's important to keep that going.
"I enjoy working with him both professionally and personally and look forward to next year."
Yost had indicated all season his desire to return for at least another season, and at times hinted he may want to even go two more seasons.
"I think we're making progress," Yost said. "I like the fact that the kids made the jump this season. We're not there yet. We got a ways to go. But I said all along I wanted to stay [as manager] until we get into a position to compete. We're getting closer. Everyone is excited where we're headed."
Yost has envisioned helping the Royals' young core develop into a contender before handing over the reigns to his successor eventually. Does Yost think it will be that easy to just walk away when the team becomes competitive again?
"I really do," Yost said. "It's not like I won't be here. I'll still be here. I just won't be here every day. We'll just take it year by year for now. I love what I'm doing, but I missed my kids growing up. Now I got four grand-children, and I want to see them. I've been gone eight months a year my whole life. I've never been around for birthdays [or other celebrations]."
Yost took over for Trey Hillman as manager in 2010. Yost is the winningest Royals manager in franchise history with 687 victories. Yost also has a 22-9 post-season record.
"We love Ned," Royals second baseman Whit Merrifield said. "If we can keep out of a tree stand this winter, we should be good going forward. I think he got re-energized these last two months. More pep in his step."