Royals Make Roster Decision After Seth Lugo Move

Getting Lugo back into the rotation quick was very important for the Royals as they have a lengthy injury report which includes starters Kris Bubic and Cole Ragans.

As a corresponding move, the Royals set down right-handed reliever Mason Black to Triple-A Omaha.

Black has been up and down between the major leagues and minor leagues for the Royals organization this season.

Black pitched well to start the season before falling into a very rough stretch after Lugo went down. On the season, Black holds a 3.57 ERA with 15 strikeouts across 17 1/3 innings for the Royals.

However, in his last four appearances, Black has pitched seven innings while giving up five earned runs. He also surrendered seven walks in that span.

Over his short time spent in the major leagues in three seasons, the 26-year-old has pitched to a high six ERA while consistently walking batters. He could potentially serve as a trade piece for the Royals come the 2026 trade deadline.

As a whole, the Royals have not performed well this season. Coming into Thursday, the team holds a 31-45 record and sits in fourth place of the American League Central division.

Their pitching staff has been a large reason for their rough season. They current hold a 4.48 ERA which ranks 21st in the league. Their bullpen has struggled immensely, with 16 blown saves in 35 opportunities, they are only converting on saves 54 percent of the time.

Going back to the team's injured list, they will not be able to improve without a heathy team, and with All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. now going down with an apparent injury, the Royals will surely be sellers at the deadline.