Royals’ Lugo Returns as Erceg Hits Injured List

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals announced on Friday that right-handed pitcher Seth Lugo is off the injured list and ready to start against the Detroit Tigers tonight at 7:05 p.m. at Kauffman Stadium. Meanwhile, fellow pitcher Lucas Erceg has been placed on the injured list with a lower back strain.

Erceg’s absence comes after a shaky performance in his last four outings. He pitched against the Minnesota Twins last Saturday but struggled, giving up four runs and retiring only 13 of the 21 hitters he faced. Despite recent challenges, he holds a strong season ERA of 1.96 and one of the lowest walk rates in baseball. Overall this season, he has recorded 47 strikeouts with just six walks over 47 innings pitched.

The Royals had mentioned Erceg was dealing with discomfort, but his condition has worsened to the point that he will miss at least two weeks. Additionally, the team already has right-hander Hunter Harvey on the injured list due to back issues.

On the other hand, Lugo returns after nearly three weeks sidelined due to a right finger sprain. This season, he has a 3.02 ERA over nine starts, with 42 strikeouts. The Royals aim to improve their standing in the American League Central Division; they are currently in fourth place with a 30-27 record, while the Tigers lead the division at 37-22.

The Royals also announced that pitcher Cole Ragans will begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Northwest Arkansas tomorrow, providing additional depth in the pitching lineup.