Royals Demand Big Deals for Wacha and Lugo | Kansas City Royals News

The Royals are holding firm on veteran pitchers Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo, demanding “enticing” offers before the August 3 trade deadline—because they’re vital to both short-term stability and long-term plans. Wacha, AL’s innings leader, and Lugo, a former All-Star, come with hefty contracts and club options, plus they’ll hit free agency in 2029. With starters Cole Ragans (post-surgery) and Kris Bubic (shoulder issues, impending FA) in doubt, the Royals need these two to anchor their rotation. GM J.J. Picollo insists they’re not for sale cheap—they want MLB-ready arms to bolster the farm system, but also need Wacha and Lugo to carry the load in 2027. It’s a high-stakes balancing act: compete now or build for the future—and Picollo’s keeping all options on the table. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1ffed9f9af4920bd