Royals' Seth Lugo Recalls the Impact of the New Dimensions at The K
Royals pitcher Seth Lugo has a unique perspective on the recent changes to Kauffman Stadium's dimensions. While he's known for his 10-pitch arsenal, Lugo reveals a surprising preference: a weaker memory.
"I wish my memory was a lot worse," Lugo said at the Royals Rally on Saturday. "It’s a lot easier to pitch with a bad memory."
This isn't just casual chatter. Lugo's comment came up during a discussion about the Royals' decision to move in the fences this season, a change that has excited hitters.
Lugo is not opposed to the change, especially after a conversation with Royals general manager J.J. Picollo. "Me and J.J. spoke about how much it would have affected my last two seasons," Lugo explained. "He gave me some information and stats, and I can think of one hit, a double, that would have been a home run if the fences were in."
Lugo recalled a specific moment from the playoffs, when Stanton's double off the wall stood out. "It was in the playoffs," he said, "Stanton’s double off the wall."
This hit, a double by Giancarlo Stanton, occurred in Game 3 of the 2024 ALDS. Lugo's insight highlights the potential impact of the new dimensions, even if he acknowledges that he can't control the outcome. "Keep the balls out of the gaps, keep to the big part of the field, or keep it on the ground," he said, summarizing the team's strategy. "It shouldn’t make much of a difference from what we’re trying to do."
Lugo's perspective offers a unique take on the changes, blending his pitching skills with the strategic implications of the new dimensions at The K.
