Royals Place Bobby Witt Jr. On Injured List
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- The Royals have placed star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. on the 10-day injured list due to lower back tightness and called up infielder Andrew Velazquez from Triple-A Omaha to fill his roster spot.
- To open a 40-man roster spot for Velazquez, right-handed pitcher Stephen Kolek was transferred from the 15-day IL to the 60-day IL as he recovers from a flexor strain, effectively ending his season.
- Witt, an All-Star and current American League WAR leader, is having a strong season despite a slight offensive dip, but his injury absence could impact his MVP candidacy if it extends beyond 10 days.
- The Royals, holding the second-worst record in the American League, will rely on a shortstop committee including Tyler Tolbert, Nick Loftin, Josh Rojas, and Velazquez during Witt’s absence.
- Velazquez, 32, has limited major league success with a low batting average but offers speed and strong defense; he is currently hitting .270/.333/.370 in Triple-A this season.
