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

Atlanta right-hander looks to bounce back from shoulder surgery as he takes the mound against Kansas City

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:35pm

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Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo Lopez will make his return to the starting rotation on Saturday, facing the Kansas City Royals one year after making his most recent big league start. Lopez, who missed the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery, will look to build on his 2024 All-Star campaign as the Braves aim to overcome their thin starting pitching depth. Meanwhile, Royals veteran Michael Wacha will take the mound, hoping to continue his reputation as a reliable innings-eater.

Why it matters

Lopez's return is crucial for the Braves, who are already thin on starting pitching options. If he can regain his 2024 form, it would provide a major boost to their rotation. The game also features a matchup of two experienced right-handers, with Wacha looking to build on a solid 2025 season for the Royals.

The details

Lopez made only one start in 2025 before being shut down for the season with shoulder issues that required surgery. In five Grapefruit League appearances this spring, he posted a 4.15 ERA in 17 1/3 innings, with his velocity dipping to 89.2 mph in his final outing. However, Lopez said he has addressed the 'mechanical issues' and is 'without pain and throwing all my pitches.' Wacha, meanwhile, continues to establish himself as a reliable innings-eater, making 31 starts and pitching 172 2/3 innings last season.

  • Lopez's last 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-hander who missed the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery and is making his return to the starting rotation.

Michael Wacha

Kansas City Royals right-hander known for his durability, having made 31 starts and pitched 172 2/3 innings in 2025.

Chris Sale

Atlanta Braves teammate of Reynaldo Lopez who pitched six scoreless innings to help the team win the season opener 6-0 on Friday.

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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

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.