kansas City Royals Pitching Update: Bergert Injury & LorenzenS Role – What You Need to Know
The Kansas City Royals are navigating a shift in their pitching rotation following right-handed starter Ryan Bergert‘s placement on the injured list. This advancement, announced after experiencing right forearm tightness during bullpen warm-ups on September 17, 2025, impacts the team’s plans for the upcoming series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Understanding these changes is crucial for fans following the Royals’ playoff push. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the situation,including the impact on michael Lorenzen and Cole Ragans,and what it means for the team’s strategy moving forward.
H2: Bergert’s injury & Immediate Impact
Ryan Bergert’s injury is a setback for both the pitcher and the Royals. Forearm tightness in pitchers frequently enough signals potential issues ranging from mild inflammation to more serious conditions like strain or even ligament damage. While the full extent of the injury is still being evaluated, the decision to place him on the injured list is a precautionary measure.
This means Bergert will miss his scheduled start against the Toronto Blue jays on Friday. But how will the Royals fill that void?
H2: Michael Lorenzen Steps up: A Versatile Solution
The Royals have turned to veteran right-hander Michael Lorenzen to take Bergert’s place in the rotation. This is a meaningful shift for Lorenzen, who was initially slated for a multi-inning relief role following his recent appearance against the Seattle Mariners.
Hear’s a speedy look at Lorenzen’s recent performance:
| Player | Appearances | ERA | IP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Lorenzen | 25 (24 Starts, 1 Relief) | 1.29 (Relief) | 7.0 (Relief) |
Lorenzen’s ability to effectively pitch both as a starter and reliever makes him a valuable asset. His recent relief appearance, retiring the side on just 12 pitches, demonstrates his adaptability. This flexibility is a key strength for the Royals as they navigate potential pitching challenges.
H2: Cole Ragans’ Return & Ongoing Recovery
The situation is further complicated by the recent return of Cole Ragans from the injured list. Ragans, who had been sidelined with a strained left rotator cuff, made his first start since June 5th on Wednesday against the Mariners.
His performance, while not resulting in a win, was a positive step in his recovery. Ragans pitched 3 innings, a carefully managed workload designed to ease him back into starting duties. The Royals will likely continue to monitor his progress closely, gradually increasing his pitch count in subsequent starts.
H2: Long-Term Implications for the Royals’ rotation
These pitching adjustments raise questions about the Royals’ long-term strategy. Will Bergert’s injury require a more significant roster move? how will the team manage the workload of both
