A Royals pitcher is dealing with an injury.
The Kansas City Royals played a spring training game on Wednesday. A winner did not emerge, though, as the ball game ended in an 8-8 tie (yes, spring training contests can end in a tie). The outcome of the game was not the primary storyline afterwards, however. Rather, the Royals' attention was on pitcher Stephen Kolek.
According to Anne Rogers of MLB.com, Kolek is dealing with tightness in his left side, something he felt while warming up in the bullpen on Wednesday. The right-handed hurler never got in the game as a result of the issue. Teams are especially cautious in spring training, but it remains to be seen what the severity of this specific concern is. Rogers also reports that an update could be made available on Thursday.
Stephen Kolek Dealing With Injury Concern in Spring Training
Kolek, 28, is looking to make another good impression this spring. He was acquired from the San Diego Padres last season and pitched well, However, he made only five starts with Kansas City. Nevertheless, he recorded a 1.91 ERA during that span. It was a strong first impression, and he was hoping to carry the momentum into spring training.
Kansas City's starting rotation may already be set, however.
Kolek was already going to have a difficult time making the 2026 Opening Day roster. The Royals' 2026 rotation could end up looking something like this: Cole Ragans, Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, Kris Bubic, Noah Cameron.
Nothing is guaranteed, but Kolek needs a big spring training to earn a roster spot to begin the new campaign. And even if that occurs, he may end up in a bullpen role. If Kolek is forced to miss time due to an injury, his chances of making the roster would likely decrease even further. For now, there is no update on his injury status.
The good news for Kansas City is that the ball club features a respectable amount of pitching depth. Bailey Falter, Ryan Bergert and Luinder Avila are other pitchers capable of making impacts on the roster. Regardless, they are hoping that Kolek will not have to miss a significant amount of time.
Updates will continue to be provided on Stephen Kolek's injury status as they are made available. As for the Royals, their next game in spring training is scheduled for Thursday afternoon against the Arizona Diamondbacks. First pitch is scheduled for 3:10 PM EST.