Royals' Michael Wacha Falls Apart Late in No-Decision

A Look at his Performance

Dominant Start

Michael Wacha of the Kansas City Royals started the game strong, striking out the side in the first inning. Through the first four innings, Wacha allowed just one hit and no runs.

Royals Can't Provide Run Support

Despite Wacha's strong start, the Royals offense failed to provide any run support. They managed just two hits off Texas Rangers starter Taylor Hearn through the first four innings.

Late Innings Collapse

Wacha began to struggle in the fifth inning, allowing a leadoff double to Adolis Garcia. He then walked Corey Seager to put runners on first and second. After recording two outs, Wacha gave up a two-run single to Jonah Heim, giving the Rangers a 2-0 lead.

Wacha's struggles continued in the sixth inning as he allowed another two runs, extending the Rangers' lead to 4-0. The Royals' bullpen came in to relieve Wacha, but they also allowed runs, giving up a total of eight runs in the final three innings.

No Decision for Wacha

Despite his late-inning struggles, Wacha did not factor in the decision as the Royals went on to lose 8-3. He finished the day with a final line of 5 1/3 innings pitched, four runs allowed on six hits, four walks, and seven strikeouts.

Reasons for the Collapse

There are several possible reasons for Wacha's late-inning collapse. He may have been tiring after throwing 90 pitches through the first five innings. Additionally, the Rangers' hitters may have simply made adjustments to his pitches as the game went on.

Moving Forward

Despite the disappointing outing, Wacha remains a key part of the Royals' rotation. He has shown flashes of dominance this season, and the team will need him to continue to improve as they look to make a playoff push.