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3w ago

Royals Place Lucas Erceg on 15-Day IL, Adjust Bullpen Roles

Young relievers are stepping into high-leverage assignments to cover Erceg’s absence.

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Kansas City Royals pitcher Lucas Erceg (60) is helped off the field by manager Matt Quatraro (33) and training staff during the seventh inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on April 18, 2025.

Overview

  • Lucas Erceg was placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 27 with a low back strain reportedly tweaked during a weight-room session after fighting an illness.
  • Seth Lugo returned from the injured list to start Friday’s game against the Detroit Tigers, marking his first appearance since suffering a strained middle finger.
  • John Schreiber, Daniel Lynch IV, Angel Zerpa, Jonathan Bowlan and Steven Cruz have been tapped for increased high-leverage opportunities in Erceg’s stead.
  • Erceg entered the season with a 1.96 ERA over 24 appearances and ranked fourth in fWAR among qualified relievers since last August, making his absence a notable setback for Kansas City’s bullpen.
  • Rotation depth remains challenged with Alec Marsh sidelined by a right shoulder impingement and Kyle Wright rehabbing from right shoulder surgery in Double-A.