Royals Reinstate Kyle Isbel Ahead of Rockies Series Finale

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Royals Reinstate Kyle Isbel Ahead of Rockies Series Finale

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Aug 2, 2026 2:13 PM ET

The Kansas City Royals welcomed back center fielder Kyle Isbel on Sunday, reinstating him from the injured list ahead of their series finale against the Colorado Rockies. The club also selected left-hander Aaron Bummer from Triple-A Omaha while placing right-hander Luinder Avila on the 15-day injured list with right forearm tightness.

Isbel's return gives Kansas City one of its top defensive outfielders back after he completed a minor league rehab assignment. The Royals announced the series of roster moves Sunday as they continue navigating the final stretch before the trade deadline.

Isbel had been sidelined since early June after suffering a torn left plantar fascia. The injury kept him out for nearly two months, but he progressed through a rehab assignment before being cleared to return to the active roster. In 56 games this season, the 29-year-old is batting .244 with three home runs, 11 RBIs and five stolen bases.

The Royals also added bullpen depth by selecting Bummer, who brings major league experience to the relief corps. The veteran left-hander appeared in 19 games this season before joining Kansas City's active roster and provides another option for manager Matt Quatraro late in games.

The corresponding move sent Avila to the injured list after the young right-hander exited Saturday's outing with right forearm tightness. Avila entered Sunday's transaction with a 4-0 record and a 3.82 ERA, making his absence another setback for a rotation already searching for consistency.

Kansas City Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel (28)Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Kansas City entered Sunday with a 46-66 record, sitting last in the American League Central. While the standings have shifted the club's focus toward the future, getting Isbel back strengthens the lineup and outfield defense for the remainder of the season.

The Royals will now monitor Avila's recovery while evaluating their pitching depth heading into the final hours before Monday's trade deadline.

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

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