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 has a 10-pitch arsenal, Lugo wishes he had a better memory, as it makes pitching easier.
During the Royals Rally on Saturday, Lugo shared his thoughts on the team's decision to move in the fences. He believes this change will positively impact his performance, especially after a conversation with Royals general manager J.J. Picollo.
Lugo explained, "Me and J.J. discussed my metrics and how the new dimensions would have influenced my last two seasons. We're confident in our assessment. While I didn't conduct my own research, J.J. provided some insights and statistics. I can recall at least one hit, a double, that would have been a home run if the fences were in."
Lugo's confidence in the change is evident. He mentions a specific moment from the playoffs when Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees slugger, doubled off him in Game 3 of the 2024 ALDS. This hit, according to Lugo, would have been a home run if the fences were closer.
Despite his personal connection to the change, Lugo remains focused on his game plan. He advises, "Keep the balls out of the gaps, stick to the bigger part of the field, or keep it on the ground. That's our strategy. The new dimensions shouldn't significantly alter our approach."
This statement highlights Lugo's adaptability and his understanding of the game's dynamics. While he welcomes the change, he remains grounded in his strategy, ensuring his performance remains unaffected.