The Kansas City Royals just signed a new deal with Michael Wacha for three years, with an option for 2028.
Wacha will earn $51 million over the first three years, and if they choose to keep him in 2028, it will cost the team an additional $21 million. Last season, Wacha had a record of 13-8 with a 3.35 ERA and struck out 145 batters over nearly 167 innings. However, his playoff performance was less stellar, posting a 5.19 ERA.
In 2023, the Royals struggled with a poor record of 56-106 but turned things around dramatically in one year to finish at 86-76 . This improvement earned them a wild-card spot where they beat the Orioles before losing to the Yankees in four games during the ALDS.
Royals’ Rotation and Future Moves:
Wacha contributed significantly to the team’s success by adding depth to their rotation alongside Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Brady Singer. Fans might wonder if this move is enough for another playoff run next year. There’s also curiosity about whether Michael Lorenzen will stay after joining mid-season or if Alec Marsh or Kyle Wright might step up as starters.
Drafted from Texas A&M in 2012’s first round by the Cardinals, Wacha quickly made his mark in MLB by playing in their rotation during the World Series in 2013. He stayed with them until moving on to teams like Mets, Rays, Red Sox, Padres before landing at Royals. Across his career of nearly three hundred games pitched so far—his stats include being named NLCS MVP once upon time back when he was still wearing Cardinal red!
What do you think about these changes?
