Royals Promote Trevor Richards as Bullpen Solution Amid Struggles

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals have selected the minor league contract of right-hander Trevor Richards to join their 26-man roster, the team announced on Saturday.

In a corresponding move, the Royals optioned right-handed pitcher Jonathan Bowlan to Triple-A Omaha. This call-up marks Richards’ major league season debut for 2025, having joined the Royals after being released from the Chicago Cubs just three days earlier.

Richards, 32, has been a reliable option in the minor leagues, posting a 1.69 ERA with two saves in 10.2 innings for Omaha. This follows a more challenging period at Iowa, where he struggled significantly. The Royals hope his recent performance might provide a much-needed boost to their bullpen.

Despite a tough track record, with a 4.95 ERA and a 12% walk rate since the start of the 2022 season, the Royals are willing to give Richards a chance. His strikeout rate had previously dipped to 22.4% over the past year, but he has shown flashes of improvement since joining Kansas City.

Bowlan, 28, had a rough outing in Kansas City’s loss against the Chicago White Sox, giving up five runs in just 1.1 innings. He holds a 4.09 ERA this season and will look to regroup at the Triple-A level.

Richards is expected to take a middle relief role with the Royals. Manager Matt Quatraro stated, “We need fresh arms, and Trevor has earned this opportunity based on his performance.”

The Royals will be watching Richards closely to evaluate his potential long-term role as they navigate this challenging phase of the season.