Braves' Lopez Returns to Rotation After Year Away, Faces Royals

Atlanta right-hander Reynaldo Lopez makes his first MLB start in over a year as he takes on Kansas City's Michael Wacha.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:22pm

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Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo Lopez will make his first MLB start in over a year when he faces the Kansas City Royals on Saturday. Lopez, who missed most of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery, will look to build on his 2024 All-Star campaign as the Braves aim to bolster their thin starting rotation. He'll be opposed by Royals veteran Michael Wacha, who is coming off a solid 2025 season.

Why it matters

Lopez's return is crucial for the Braves, who are already thin on starting pitching depth. If he can regain his 2024 form, it would be a major boost for the team. The Royals, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing opening day loss as they try to compete in the AL Central.

The details

Lopez made only one start in 2025 before being shut down for the season with shoulder issues that required surgery. He posted mixed results in five Grapefruit League appearances this spring, with his velocity down in his final outing. However, Lopez says he has addressed the 'mechanical issues' and is now 'without pain and throwing all my pitches.' Wacha, on the other hand, has established himself as a reliable innings-eater, making 31 starts and pitching 172 2/3 innings for the Royals in 2025.

  • Lopez's last MLB start came exactly one year ago on March 28, 2025.
  • Wacha last faced the Braves on April 8, 2023, while with the San Diego Padres.

The players

Reynaldo Lopez

Atlanta Braves right-handed pitcher who was an NL All-Star in 2024 but missed most of 2025 due to shoulder surgery.

Michael Wacha

Kansas City Royals right-handed pitcher known for his durability, making 31 starts and pitching 172 2/3 innings in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“I'm without pain and throwing all my pitches.”

— Reynaldo Lopez

“I'm always trying to improve, never trying to be content with where I am. Always trying to improve the repertoire, trying to get those pitches in my repertoire dialed in to where I need them to be.”

— Michael Wacha

What’s next

The Braves will be closely monitoring Lopez's performance and health as he makes his return to the rotation. A strong outing could solidify his spot in the starting five and provide a much-needed boost to the team's pitching staff.

The takeaway

This matchup between Lopez and Wacha represents an intriguing contrast in pitching styles and career trajectories. Lopez's return from injury could be a game-changer for the Braves, while Wacha's steady presence in the Royals' rotation has made him a valuable asset for the team.