The Kansas City Royals have been active in the offseason, finalizing a two-year, $32-million deal with free-agent right-hander Michael Wacha, including an opt-out clause after the 2024 season and performance bonuses based on innings pitched. Wacha, 32, entered free agency after the Padres declined his two-year club option, declining his 2024 player option subsequently.
Wacha had an impressive stint with the Padres, showcasing his skills with a 3.22 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP, recording 124 strikeouts and 43 walks over 134 1/3 innings in the 2023 season. This followed his rebound in 2022 with a 3.32 ERA over 23 starts for the Red Sox after challenging seasons in 2019-2021.
Starting his MLB journey with the St. Louis Cardinals, Wacha made a notable impact with a debut marked by a 2.78 ERA over 64 2/3 innings. He earned NLCS MVP honors in 2013, contributing to the Cardinals’ journey to the World Series. Despite challenges in his later years with the Cardinals, including injuries and a 4.39 ERA over 101 games, Wacha found success with the Padres and Red Sox.
Injuries, especially to his right shoulder, have been a recurring challenge for Wacha throughout his career, leading to multiple stints on the injured list, including the past two years. Heading into the 2024 season, Wacha hasn’t reached the 30-start threshold or thrown more than 134 1/3 innings in a single season since 2017.
The Royals have also secured a two-year, $13-million deal with free-agent outfielder Hunter Renfroe, who brings eight years of major league experience as a power hitter with a strong arm, primarily playing in right field for various teams. Renfroe posted a .233/.297/.416 slash line with 20 home runs in the 2023 season, and despite some defensive limitations, he adds a notable offensive presence to the Royals’ lineup.
