Royals’ Tony Gonsolin takes step toward making MLB comeback

Former Los Angeles Dodgers legend Tony Gonsolin is trying to work his way back from serious elbow surgery. Now a member of the Kansas City Royals, the right-hander is one step closer to making his MLB comeback.

Gonsolin is set to begin a rehab assignment on Wednesday with Triple-A Omaha, the team announced. There’s no word on exactly how many starts he’ll have to make before returning to the majors.

Still, the Royals will take a cautious approach with Gonsolin. For starters, his elbow injury came after he already had to miss time with a previous Tommy John surgery. Kansas City doesn’t want to rush him back and risk a setback.

Especially based on their 58-74 record. Sitting 10.5 games back of the AL Central lead and eight games back of a Wild Card spot, it’s not like Kansas City is making an earnest playoff push. Gonsolin will be able to take the time necessary to make a proper return.

When he does, the one-time All-Star and World Series champion will be looking to regain his old form. Over his six years with the Dodgers, Gonsolin held a 3.34 ERA and a 387/149 K/BB ratio. The righty may not be the pitcher he once was, especially after his injuries. But he wouldn’t be trying to make a comeback if he didn’t think he had gas left in the tank.

Gonsolin’s deal with the Royals contains a club option for the 2027 season. If he comes back healthy and productive, perhaps he can become a true factor in Kansas City’s pitching rotation then. For now though, Gonsolin is just trying to get back into the bigs.