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 successful 2023 season with the Royals, recording a 13-8 record and a 3.35 ERA, which led to renewed interest from Kansas City in retaining him long-term. His previous contract included a $16 million salary for the upcoming season with a player option for 2025, but the new deal provides the pitcher with more stability and longevity. This move also solidifies the Royals’ starting rotation by ensuring Wacha remains a key part of their pitching staff, which was among the best in the league in terms of ERA. The deal keeps Wacha off the free-agent market, where he likely would have attracted significant interest from other teams.
Royals General Manager J.J. Picollo expressed optimism about re-signing Wacha, citing the pitcher’s positive experience with the team and his good working relationship with pitching coach Brian Sweeney. According to Picollo, Wacha and his wife enjoy Kansas City, which played a role in his decision to stay. While the Royals anticipated competition from other clubs in free agency, they used the offseason window to negotiate a deal that satisfied both Wacha’s desire for a stable, long-term position and the team’s need for a reliable pitcher in their rotation.
During the 2023 season, Wacha made 29 starts, covering 166.2 innings, marking one of his most active years in his 12-year MLB career. His performance placed him among the top ten in the American League for ERA and was instrumental in helping the Royals’ rotation achieve a 3.55 ERA, the second-best in the major leagues. Wacha also contributed in the postseason, making two AL Division Series starts against the New York Yankees and dueling with ace Gerrit Cole. Despite solid performances, Wacha received a no-decision in the first game and took the loss in Game 4, where he allowed only two runs in a close matchup.
With Wacha’s re-signing, the Royals’ rotation is expected to be one of their strengths going into the new season. He will join All-Star pitchers Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo, along with Brady Singer, to form a solid core. The final spot in the rotation remains up for grabs, with Kyle Wright, recently acquired from the Braves, being a leading candidate after missing last season due to shoulder surgery. He will compete with Alec Marsh and others during spring training, providing the Royals with a well-rounded group that can help them remain competitive in the league.
