Wacha, 33, had just signed a new three-year contract with the Kansas City Royals with a club option for the 2028 season. As he sat next to general manager J.J. Picollo, Wacha gleamed with joy. Picollo reiterated the organization’s desire to keep him, calling Wacha a top offseason priority. And Wacha felt the same.

The pact includes bonuses and an option for the fourth year that would max out the deal at $72 million, a major-league source said.

A person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press the Royals are bringing back right-hander Michael Wacha on a three-year, $51 million contract that includes a club option for the 2028 season.