Royals Lock In Michael Wacha with Three-Year Deal to Strengthen Rotation Stability
The Kansas City Royals have reportedly signed right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha to a new three-year contract worth $51 million, which includes a club option for the 2028 season. Wacha’s deal is structured to pay him $18 million each in the first two years, with a reduction to $14 million in 2027. If the Royals exercise the 2028 option, Wacha could earn an additional $14 million, and there’s a $1 million buyout if they choose not to retain him. Additionally, he can potentially make up to $4 million in performance bonuses in both 2027 and 2028, incentivized by innings milestones that start at 105 and go up in five-inning increments through 140.
Wacha had a strong 2023 season with the Royals, posting a 13-8 record and a 3.35 ERA, which sparked renewed interest in securing him for the long term. While his previous contract included a $ 16 million salary for the upcoming season along with a player option for 2025, the new agreement offers more stability and longevity for the pitcher. This move reinforces the Royals’ starting rotation, ensuring that Wacha will continue to be a vital part of their pitching staff, which ranked among the best in the league in terms of ERA. Additionally, this deal keeps Wacha off the free-agent market, where he would likely have drawn significant interest from other teams.
Royals General Manager J.J. Picollo is feeling optimistic about the possibility of re-signing pitcher Michael Wacha, highlighting the positive experience Wacha had with the team and his strong relationship with pitching coach Brian Sweeney. Picollo noted that Wacha and his wife enjoy living in Kansas City, which factors into his decision to potentially stay with the team. While the Royals expect competition from other teams in free agency, they’ve used the offseason to negotiate a deal that meets Wacha’s desire for stability and the team’s need for a dependable pitcher in their rotation.
During the 2023 season, Wacha made 29 starts and pitched 166.2 innings, marking one of the busiest years of his 12-year MLB career. His performance ranked him among the top ten in the American League for ERA, contributing to the Royals’ impressive 3.55 ERA, which was the second-best in the majors. Wacha also played a key role during the postseason, making two AL Division Series starts against the New York Yankees, where he faced off against ace Gerrit Cole. Despite solid outings, he was left with a no-decision in the first game and took the loss in Game 4 after allowing only two runs in a tightly contested match.
With Wacha’s potential re-signing, the Royals’ rotation is poised to be a significant strength for the upcoming season. He will join All-Star pitchers Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo, along with Brady Singer, to establish a strong core. The last spot in the rotation is still up for grabs, with Kyle Wright—recently acquired from the Braves and returning from shoulder surgery—being a top candidate. He will compete with Alec Marsh and others in spring training, giving the Royals a well-rounded pitching group to keep them competitive in the league.
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