URGENT UPDATE: The Kansas City Royals have just announced that starting pitcher Ryan Bergert will be placed on the injured list due to troubling right forearm tightness. This news comes just before the Royals’ crucial game against the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday.
Bergert experienced the tightness in the bullpen prior to Wednesday night’s game, which the Royals won 7-5 against the Seattle Mariners. As a result, right-hander Michael Lorenzen will take over the starting role, stepping in after initially being slated for relief duties.
Lorenzen, who recently made his first relief appearance since September 28, 2024, against Atlanta, successfully retired the side in the fifth inning of Wednesday’s game on just 12 pitches. He boasts a remarkable 1.29 ERA, having allowed only 1 earned run across 7.0 innings in his three regular-season relief outings with the Royals.
Meanwhile, Wednesday’s starter, Cole Ragans, faced challenges as he returned from the injured list with a strained left rotator cuff. He received a no-decision after pitching 3.2 innings in what was his first start since early June.
This sudden shift in the Royals’ pitching lineup raises significant concerns as they prepare for a pivotal stretch of the season. The team will need to quickly adapt to this change, putting added pressure on the remaining pitchers as they seek to maintain their competitive edge.
What’s next? Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Lorenzen performs as a starter and whether Bergert’s injury may impact the Royals’ postseason aspirations. Updates on Bergert’s condition are expected as the team continues to assess the situation.
The Royals and their supporters are hoping for a quick recovery for Bergert, whose performance has been a vital part of the team’s success this season. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
