As the trade deadline approaches early next month, the Kansas City Royals (38-55) are in a clear position to be sellers. However, not all of their trade candidates will be easily attainable.
In an article published by The Athletic on Thursday, Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon reported that the Royals are unlikely to trade veteran starters Seth Lugo or Michael Wacha ahead of the deadline. They added that Kansas City is telling teams it will listen to offers for both right-handers, but it is seeking “massive” returns, including “multiple” top prospects.
Advertisement
Lugo, 36, had been one of the more reliable starters in baseball over the previous three seasons, posting a 3.50 ERA and 1.18 WHIP over 498.1 innings during that span. This year, however, has been a different story. Through 18 starts, the former All-Star is 3-6 with a 4.56 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 7.2 K/9, which is on pace to be his lowest strikeout rate since 2017.
In his most recent start against the New York Mets, Lugo allowed nine runs (six earned) on nine hits — including a pair of home runs — over 4.1 innings. It was the third time this year that he has given up at least seven runs. Aside from that, the 11-year veteran has allowed two earned runs or fewer in 10 of his 18 starts. He is owed $20 million in 2027, plus a $3 million buyout on a $17 million club option for 2028.
Advertisement
Wacha, 35, would be more likely to fetch a strong return if traded. He currently leads the American League in innings pitched and is an All-Star for the first time since 2015. In 18 starts, the right-hander has posted a 3.45 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 91 strikeouts over 114.2 innings.
One thing that could deter teams from meeting Kansas City’s asking price, according to The Athletic, is Wacha’s expected numbers. His 4.05 expected ERA is only slightly better than league average and 60 points higher than his actual ERA. When factoring in his age, it becomes even tougher for other clubs to justify parting with multiple top prospects to acquire him.
Advertisement
Unlike Lugo, who has full no-trade protection, Wacha only has a limited no-trade clause. He is also owed $6 million less in 2027 and has an easier out in his deal the following season. It costs $1 million to move on in 2028 if his $14 million club option is not picked up.
Even if the Royals keep Lugo and Wacha past the deadline, they will need to add to their 2027 rotation. Left-hander Cole Ragans, who recently underwent a UCL repair procedure, is expected to be sidelined through the middle of next season. The club may also have to replace 2025 All-Star Kris Bubic, who is set to become a free agent this winter.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jul 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source sports.yahoo.com ’
![Disney Entertainment Television Announces Panels, "Percy Jackson" Offsite, Hulu Animayhem, More [UPDATE]](https://celebrity.land/en/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Disney-Entertainment-Television-Announces-Panels-Percy-Jackson-Offsite-Hulu-Animayhem-120x86.webp)