In a surprising turn of events, Michael Wacha finds himself back on the market. This comes after the San Diego Padres declined his conditional options, leaving the seasoned pitcher up for grabs. Wacha’s track record suggests a certain level of risk due to injuries. The New York Yankees, in dire need of pitching talent, might find themselves drawn into internal discussions regarding the changeup artist.
Wacha’s Journey and Recent Performance
Earlier this year, the Padres signed a four-year, $26 million deal with Wacha, only to decline their two-year, $32 million option. Wacha, not content with a three-year, $18.5 million player option, is now seeking a new home. His 2023 statistics reveal a pitcher with promise: 24 starts, 134.1 innings pitched, and an impressive 3.22 ERA. The question is whether the Yankees are willing to take a chance on his conditional options.
Wacha’s recent consistency is linked to his more frequent use of the changeup, which now stands as his most frequently employed pitch at 34.5 percent. This adjustment has played a significant role in enhancing his overall performance on the mound. The changeup, with a 35.9-percent whiff rate and a .234 xwOBA against it, has become Wacha’s secret weapon. It significantly contributed to his 2.6 fWAR in the past season.
The Catch: Wacha’s Injury History
Despite Wacha’s evident talent, there’s a substantial elephant in the room—his injury history. Since the beginning of the 2022 campaign, Wacha has dealt with left intercostal irritation. Additionally, he has struggled with right shoulder inflammation, making him a risky investment. However, the Yankees have a reputation for their pitching woes. They might see beyond the injury risk, considering the scarcity of reliable arms on their current roster.
Wacha’s durability remains a concern, having not surpassed 150 innings since 2017. However, his recent performance suggests a pitcher who can make a significant impact if managed correctly. The Yankees, lacking in starting pitching options, might see potential where others see a gamble.
Yankees: Pirates Acquire McKinney
In a side note, the Yankees have traded outfielder Billy McKinney to the Pirates for international bonus pool money. McKinney recently signed a minor league deal with the Yankees. He now provides the Pirates with some non-roster depth, potentially filling a gap left by an injured prospect. The details of the international bonus pool exchange remain undisclosed, adding intrigue to an already unusual trade.
As the Yankees make moves off the field, the question remains whether Wacha will become a part of their pitching arsenal in the upcoming season. Only time and market dynamics will reveal if Wacha’s name will resurface in the Bronx, but one thing is for sure – the Yankees are exploring every option to bolster their roster for the challenges ahead.