The Kansas City Royals have re-signed right-hander to a three-year contract worth $51 million, which includes a club option for 2028, according to an anonymous source who spoke to The Associated Press on Sunday. The deal could ultimately be valued at up to $72 million over four years if performance bonuses are met.
Wacha is set to earn $18 million annually for the first two years and $14 million in 2027. The 2028 club option is worth $14 million with a $1 million buyout. Additionally, in 2027 and 2028, Wacha can earn up to $4 million in performance bonuses, including $500,000 for reaching 105 innings and further bonuses at each five-inning increment through 140 innings.
Now 33, Wacha posted a 13-8 record and a 3.35 ERA last season after joining Kansas City on a contract with a $16 million salary for 2024 and a $16 million player option for the following year. His success and positive experience with the Royals likely made the long-term deal with Kansas City appealing, despite potential interest from other teams in free agency.
Royals GM J.J. Picollo noted that Wacha and his family enjoy Kansas City and have a strong rapport with pitching coach Brian Sweeney, factors that made re-signing him a real possibility at season’s end.
Last season, Wacha made 29 starts, pitching 166.2 innings, his second-highest career total. His 3.35 ERA ranked in the top 10 of the American League, bolstering a Royals rotation that finished with the second-best ERA in the majors at 3.55.
Wacha also started twice in the AL Division Series against the Yankees, facing off with Gerrit Cole both times. Despite a solid performance, he took the loss in the decisive Game 4.
Returning to Kansas City’s rotation, Wacha will join All-Stars Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo, along with Brady Singer. The final rotation spot could go to Kyle Wright, who is returning from shoulder surgery, or potentially Alec Marsh and others vying for it in spring training.
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