Overview

• Cole Ragans left Friday's 10-3 loss to the Cardinals in the sixth inning due to left groin tightness, marking his third physical setback this season.
• Ragans' fastball velocity dropped sharply to 89.5 mph, well below his season average of 95.5 mph, before his departure.
• The Royals' rotation is stretched thin with injuries to Seth Lugo, Kyle Wright, and Alec Marsh, forcing reliance on prospects and depth signings.
• Top prospect Noah Cameron will make his second MLB spot start on Saturday to help stabilize the rotation temporarily.
• Veteran pitcher Rich Hill, signed to a minor-league deal, remains an option as Kansas City navigates mounting pitching challenges.