Wacha solid addition for Royals

Kansas City made it abundantly clear this off-season that bolstering their pitching staff was a top priority. The team invested significantly to secure two starting pitchers. While some argue that the price may have been steep for both acquisitions, it was a necessary move after the team endured a dismal 106-loss season last year. Despite potential overpayment concerns for Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo, both players are expected to provide a much-needed boost to the rotation.

Wacha, who signed a two-year deal worth $32 million dollars, was initially projected by The Athletic to land a three-year contract valued at $36 million dollars. The projection was close, with the final deal only deviating by $4 million dollars. The signing of Wacha surprised many Royals fans and experts across the league. For instance, Ryan Fagan of The Sporting News anticipated the 32-year-old pitcher to join the Yankees. Trade Rumors, another reputable source, also did not foresee Wacha heading to Kansas City, instead predicting possible destinations with teams like the Reds or the Braves. Like The Athletic, Trade Rumors envisioned a three-year deal worth $36 million dollars for the right-hander. Sports Illustrated even projected Wacha's return to St. Louis. None of these reputable sources had anticipated the Royals securing Wacha.

These projections, in my opinion, were accurate reflections of market expectations. Realistically, few fans anticipated the team's willingness to spend $30 million dollars on a single starter, let alone acquiring two. Despite any skepticism, Kansas City has reason to be enthusiastic about Wacha taking the mound for the Royals in both 2024 and likely 2025. Wacha brings with him a commendable track record, boasting a career ERA of 3.96 and an impressive 88 wins against 54 losses.

The Royals starting five according to beat writer Anne Roger's is projected to look something like this: 

1. Seth Lugo 

2. Michael Wacha 

3. Cole Ragans 

4. Brady Singer 

5. Jordan Lyles 

I have to respectfully disagree with Roger's on where the pitchers line up in the rotation but not a too big of a difference. I project the rotation to look something like this at the beginning of the season: 

1. Cole Ragans 

2. Michael Wacha 

3. Seth Lugo 

4. Brady Singer 

5. Jordan Lyles 

Many Royals fans likely share my sentiment in considering Ragans the team's top starter, and for good reason. In the previous season, the Royals had a glimpse of Ragans' capabilities after acquiring him from the Rangers in exchange for pitcher Aroldis Chapman. During his time with the Royals, Ragans showcased an impressive 2.64 ERA in 71.2 innings. While delving into the twelve games the 26-year-old played for the Royals could warrant a whole article, it's essential to acknowledge that Wacha is one of the two significant additions to the rotation this off-season. The question arises: why did the Royals prioritize acquiring Wacha early in the off-season? General Manager J.J. Picollo shed light on this decision in an interview with Anne Roger's, stating, "When we talk about adding to our clubhouse, winners and people that have been there, Michael certainly represents that. And then you look at what he’s done the last two years: 25-6. Last year, top 10 in the National League in ERA, opponents' batting average, and wins.” The American League Central should be on alert for Wacha's impact, given his noteworthy performance. Additionally, Wacha has historically posted impressive numbers against teams in the Central throughout his career. The right-hander's numbers against each team other than the Royals look like this according to statmuse.com: 

Detroit: 1-0 record with an ERA of 2.35 and 17 strikeouts in 3 appearances versus the Tigers. 

Chicago: 2-0 record with an ERA of 5.13 and 29 strikeouts in 5 appearances against the White Sox. 

Minnesota: 4-1 with an ERA of 3.67 and 33 strikeouts in 6 appearances against the Twins. 

Cleveland: 2-0 with an ERA of 1.02 and 18 strikeouts in 3 appearances against the Guardians. Kansas City: 4-2 record with an ERA of 3.14 and 48 strikeouts in 11 appearances against the Royals. Aside from Kansas City, Wacha owns a 13-3 with an ERA of 3.27 and 145 strikeouts in 28 appearances against the AL Central. Wacha's performance against Central teams has been commendable, but it's worth noting that these numbers might undergo changes as he faces Central opponents more regularly. While Wacha is an overall solid pitcher, there's a noticeable discrepancy in his home versus away statistics. When pitching at home, he excels with an impressive ERA of 2.62, performing at an ace or near-ace level. However, his numbers on the road tell a different story, with a career ERA of 4.07, contrasting significantly with his home performance. The divergence continues when examining Wacha's performance during day and night games. In daytime outings, Wacha boasts a solid 2.68 ERA, accompanied by a respectable four and one win-loss record. Conversely, his nighttime performances show an ERA of 3.45, although he maintains a commendable win-loss record of 10 and 3. In the grand scheme, Wacha undeniably brings a much-needed boost to the rotation, providing the Royals with a competitive edge every fifth day. Importantly, his presence instills confidence among fans, signaling a positive change after enduring multiple seasons with subpar rotations. Wacha's addition not only elevates the team's performance but also offers a renewed sense of optimism for Royals supporters.