The Padres announced today that they have signed right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha for a one-year contract for the 2023 season. The agreement also includes player options for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 seasons. The deal was in full agreement with President of Baseball Operations and General Manager A.J. Preller.
The 31-year-old Wacha went 11-2 with a 3.32 ERA (47 ER, 127.1 IP) in 23 starts last season with the Boston Red Sox. He had a 2.61 ERA in his first 20 starts before giving up 14 runs over his final three outings. He has made more than 20 starts six times in his career, including each of the last three 162-game seasons. He allowed left-handed hitters to bat just .188 last year and limited opponents to a .189 AVG/.549 OPS with RISP.
Wacha was originally selected by St. Louis in the first round (19th overall) of the 2012 First-Year Player Draft, and he made his Major League debut in May the following year. In 2013, during the Cardinals' NL-pennant winning campaign, he was named MVP of a League Championship Series. His scoreless streak continued into the World Series against the Red Sox, ending at 18.2 IP. The former National League All-Star pitcher has made six post-season starts and two relief appearances, going 4-3 with a 5.21 ERA (22 ER, 38.0 IP).
Michael Wacha is expected to wear the No. 52 jersey when he plays for the Padres in 2023.
See more in Sports.