A shocking move has just been announced by the Royals, leaving baseball fans in a state of disbelief. The Royals have placed pitcher Kyle Wright on outright waivers, a decision that raises eyebrows and sparks controversy.
Wright, a former 21-game winner, has never suited up for the Royals, despite their acquisition of him after the 2023 season. The team was hopeful that Wright could replicate his success with the Braves, but injuries have plagued his time with the Royals.
Here's where it gets interesting: Wright suffered a hamstring strain during spring training and continued to battle shoulder issues throughout the summer. Despite these setbacks, he made eight minor league starts, but never got the chance to showcase his skills in the big leagues for the Royals. It's a disappointing turn of events for a player who once dominated the mound.
But the story doesn't end there. Wright, with his five years of service time, has the option to refuse assignment to the minors if no team claims him. This adds an intriguing layer to the situation, as Wright's future with the Royals hangs in the balance.
And this is the part most people miss: Wright was projected to earn a substantial salary of around $1.8 million next year through arbitration. It's a significant sum, especially for a player who hasn't seen action in the majors for two years. The Royals' decision to waive Wright raises questions about their long-term strategy and the value they place on veteran presence.
The Royals also made moves to activate Kris Bubic, Alec Marsh, and James McArthur from the 60-day Injured List, further reshaping their roster. Marsh, who underwent labrum surgery last month, is expected to miss a significant portion, if not all, of the 2026 season.
This waiver move by the Royals has certainly caught the attention of baseball enthusiasts. It leaves us wondering: Was this a strategic decision to make room for other players, or a sign of the Royals' changing priorities? And what does it mean for Wright's career? These are the questions that will be on everyone's minds as we await the outcome of Wright's waiver status.
What are your thoughts on this waiver decision? Do you think the Royals made the right call, or is there more to this story? Feel free to share your insights and opinions in the comments below!
