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Royals Lose Another Pitcher to Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 19, 2026 1:19 PM ET

The Kansas City Royals suffered another blow to their pitching staff on Sunday, placing right-hander Stephen Kolek on the 15-day injured list with a right flexor strain after reinstating him from the Restricted/Family Medical Leave list. The move comes as the Royals continue to battle through a difficult season marked by injuries across the roster.

Kolek had been away from the club since early July following the birth of his child and a family emergency. His return appeared imminent, but the elbow injury delayed his comeback before he could rejoin the rotation.

The Royals also selected the contract of left-hander Evan Sisk from Triple-A Omaha to help reinforce their bullpen as they search for healthy pitching options.

We have reinstated RHP Stephen Kolek from the Restricted List/Family Medical Leave List and placed him on the 15-Day Injured List. (Right flexor strain)
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) July 19, 2026

Kolek has made 10 starts for Kansas City this season, going 4-3 with a 4.50 ERA, a 1.24 WHIP and 34 strikeouts across 54 innings. His last major league outing came on July 3 against the Tampa Bay Rays before stepping away from the team for personal reasons.

The 29-year-old also made a brief rehab appearance during the weekend, creating optimism that he could soon return before the flexor strain forced another setback.

The latest injury further strains a Royals pitching staff that has already spent much of the season without several key arms. Kansas City has also dealt with injuries to Cole Ragans, Alec Marsh, Nick Mears and Kris Bubic, leaving manager Matt Quatraro with limited rotation depth.

The Royals entered Sunday with a 40-59 record, sitting last in the American League Central as they attempt to navigate the remainder of the season despite mounting health concerns.

Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro (33) Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Sisk now gets an opportunity to contribute after earning a promotion from Omaha, while the Royals await further evaluation on Kolek's injury.

Kansas City will hope the latest setback proves to be a short-term absence as the club continues searching for stability on the mound during the second half.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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