What's Happening?
Ryan Bergert, a promising pitcher for the Kansas City Royals, is expected to be placed on the injured list due to right forearm tightness. Bergert, who was acquired from the San Diego Padres along with Stephen Kolek in exchange for catcher Freddy Fermin at the July 31 Trade Deadline, has shown potential as a future rotation option for the Royals. Despite a challenging end to his season, where he allowed 11 earned runs in his final two starts, Bergert demonstrated his capabilities in August with a 2.54 ERA and 25 strikeouts over 28 1/3 innings. The Royals are adjusting their pitching strategy with Cole Ragans returning from the 60-day injured list, planning to use Michael Lorenzen as a piggyback reliever to cover innings.
Why It's Important?
Bergert's injury is significant for the Royals as they look to build a strong pitching lineup for the future. His performance in August indicated his potential to be a key player in the rotation, making his absence a setback for the team's development plans. The Royals' decision to acquire Bergert was part of a broader strategy to strengthen their pitching staff, and his placement on the injured list could impact their ability to compete effectively in upcoming games. The team's reliance on other pitchers, such as Michael Lorenzen, to fill the gap highlights the challenges they face in maintaining a competitive edge.
What's Next?
The Royals will need to manage their pitching resources carefully in Bergert's absence. With Cole Ragans returning and limited to around 60 pitches, the team will likely continue to use Lorenzen in a piggyback role to ensure innings are covered. The Royals will also need to monitor Bergert's recovery closely to determine when he can return to the lineup. This situation may prompt the team to explore additional trades or adjustments to their roster to maintain their competitive stance.
