Royals expected to gauge trade market for all-star Michael Wacha

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Royals expected to gauge trade market for all-star Michael Wacha originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Kansas City Royals may have little choice but to consider selling ahead of the MLB trade deadline, and veteran right-hander Michael Wacha could emerge as one of the most attractive starting pitchers available.

Wacha earned his first All-Star selection since 2015, ending an 11-year drought after putting together one of the finest seasons of his career. Through 17 starts, the 35-year-old owns a 5-6 record with a 3.45 ERA, 91 strikeouts and 114 innings pitched while leading the American League in innings and quality starts (12).

He has been one of just two Royals selected for the 2026 All-Star Game, providing stability atop a rotation that has otherwise struggled to keep Kansas City in the playoff picture. Wacha’s ability to consistently pitch into the sixth and seventh innings has made him one of baseball’s most dependable veterans and a valuable asset for any club with postseason aspirations.

Royals could cash in on all-star ace Wacha​

Kansas City enters the second half at 36-54, leaving the club well out of contention despite competing in a relatively weak American League Central. Unless the Royals can produce an unlikely second-half surge, the front office is expected to evaluate ways to strengthen the organization for the future.

That makes Wacha an intriguing trade candidate. Unlike many veteran starters available at the deadline, Wacha isn’t a rental. He remains under contract through the 2028 season, giving interested teams multiple years of cost certainty while adding significant value to any potential trade package.

Contending clubs are always searching for reliable starting pitching, especially arms capable of handling heavy workloads in September and October. Wacha fits that description perfectly. His postseason experience, veteran leadership and consistent production make him an ideal addition for a team looking to solidify its rotation before the stretch run.

Trading Wacha would not necessarily signal a full rebuild for Kansas City. Instead, it could allow the Royals to capitalize on one of their most valuable assets while acquiring prospects or young major league talent to accelerate their return to contention.

With the trade deadline approaching, expect Wacha’s name to generate considerable interest across baseball. If the Royals decide to sell, the veteran All-Star could become one of the most sought-after starting pitchers on the market.

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