**Royals heating up at the break — and the front office decisions are piling up** • **Royals** are showing signs of life entering the second half, offering real optimism after a slow start • **Vinnie Pasquantino** has been finding his footing since returning from injury, per Sports Illustrated • **Michael Massey** is being floated as a trade chip, with analysts arguing KC should move him now • **Two Royals All-Star pitchers** are being targeted in trade rumors, with calls to flip them to restock the farm • **Lane Thomas** has drawn interest as a trade target from an AL contender • **Royals and Crown Center** held a public meeting at Union Station on rezoning for the proposed downtown ballpark **Watch whether KC stands pat or shakes things up before the trade deadline.** The lineup's set. Drop in.