How Michael Wacha is building up ahead of second season with Kansas City Royals
Kansas City Royals starter Michael Wacha made his first spring start after re-signing with the club this offseason. In November, Wacha inked a new three-year contract and returns to fortify the Royals starting rotation.
On Tuesday, Wacha showcased his full pitching arsenal against the Colorado Rockies at Surprise Stadium. He mixed in his changeup, four-seam fastball and curveball early in the game.
The Royals tabbed Wacha for two innings. He threw 39 pitches and got off to a hot start in his outing. Wacha struck out the first four batters he faced.
“I wanted to get that pitch count up and get a couple of ups,” Wacha said. “You know, start that process of building up out in the games and things like that. It’s working on attacking the strike zone, getting ahead and working on putting them away.”
Wacha retired Rockies duo Nolan Jones and Michael Toglia with his changeup and sinker, respectively. In the second inning, the Rockies scored three runs behind Nick Martini’s first home run of the spring.
“I fell behind with some off-speed pitches and then had to come in the (strike) zone,” Wacha said. “I got hit with the heater there on the homer. … You know, some things to work on and we will be doing that. That’s the focus for the next one.”
However, Wacha was satisfied with his start. He touched 94 mph with his fastball as he focused on his command of his secondary pitches.
Last season, Wacha tossed 166 ⅔ innings for the Royals. It was his most since the 2017 campaign when he was with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Royals hope for a repeat performance as he enters his 13th season.
Wacha posted a 13-8 record with a 3.35 ERA in 29 starts. He was also an important voice in the clubhouse and mentor to the younger pitchers. Wacha, alongside teammate Seth Lugo, helped institute in-game dugout meetings and watched bullpens together.
The veteran experience helped the Royals in the postseason. The club saw development from young starters Cole Ragans and Alec Marsh throughout the year.
Now, Wacha is preparing for his second stint in KC. He continues to hone in his newfound slider and adjust to another season on the mound.
“It’s pretty similar to other spring trainings that I have been involved with,” Wacha said. “You know, just getting the body right and the arm built up. Continue to work on the command of all the pitches and it’s heading in the right track.”
Wacha will continue his normal ramp up as the Royals march closer to opening day on March 27 against the Cleveland Guardians at Kauffman Stadium.
