Royals’ Seth Lugo has been red-hot — while his name keeps coming up in trade rumors
Seth Lugo has put himself in a position to get paid this offseason.
The Kansas City Royals veteran has followed up his second-place finish in 2024 American League Cy Young voting with another stellar campaign. Lugo, who owns a 2.65 ERA this season, continues to serve as the Royals’ ace.
On Thursday, Lugo was the club’s stopper against the Seattle Mariners. He allowed one earned run across 6 ⅓ innings in the Royals’ dramatic 3-2 victory.
Lugo earned his sixth win of the season. He has posted nine quality starts and continues to pitch at a high level for the Royals.
His strong season hasn’t gone unnoticed. Several teams are likely to inquire about Lugo at the MLB trade deadline. He holds all the cards this offseason due to a $15 million player option tied to his current contract.
It’s possible Lugo decides to not exercise his player option. If he selects that route, Lugo could enter free agency and seek a long-term deal worth more money.
As a result, the Royals have to weigh a few different scenarios. KC currently sits at 41-47 and 4 1/2 games behind the Mariners for the final AL Wild Card spot.
Injures and roster changes have altered the starting rotation. Cole Ragans is sidelined with a left rotator cuff strain and Noah Cameron continues to fare well in his rookie season.
The Royals also re-signed Michael Wacha to a long-term deal this offseason and Kris Bubic has taken the next step with a career year.
There are six available starters when the Royals’ rotation is at full strength. It’s possible the Royals decide to get something for Lugo instead of potentially letting him walk in free agency.
Hence, Lugo’s name has come up in trade rumors. And his ascending value continues to skyrocket with each start.
Lugo has allowed five earned runs, total, in his last six starts. He was named Royals pitcher of the month for June after posting a 1.26 ERA and a 27.4% strikeout rate.
There is no indication yet that the Royals will trade Lugo. The club could decide to stand pat and continue fighting for a postseason spot. In that case, Lugo’s playoff experience would be instrumental in October.
How the Royals perform this month could sway their decision. The club has long-term money tied up in Ragans and Wacha. Bubic is also a year away from free agency and could command an extension.
Lugo stands at the plate, so to speak, right now. And his recent success could leave the Royals with a tough choice to make.
