Bobby Witt Jr. lands on injured list for first time
The Royals shortstop is on the 10-day IL with lower back tightness after exiting Monday’s game and missing Tuesday’s matchup.
By Georgia Hale · Staff Writer
2 min read
Bobby Witt Jr.’s ironman run has hit its first real stop sign.
The Kansas City Royals shortstop was placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday because of lower back tightness, ESPN News Services reported. It is the first injured-list stint of Witt’s five-year major league career.
The move is retroactive to Tuesday, according to the report. Kansas City called up infielder Andrew Velazquez from Triple-A Omaha and moved right-hander Stephen Kolek to the 60-day injured list in the corresponding roster shuffle.
Witt, 26, had already been dealing with the issue before the IL move. ESPN reported that he sat out Sunday’s game against the San Diego Padres, left Monday’s game against the San Francisco Giants because of the back problem and did not play Tuesday.
Speaking with reporters, Witt said the injury kept him from playing his usual game.
“It’s just kind of one of those things where the type of way I play, I couldn’t be myself out there,” Witt said, according to ESPN. “And I couldn’t even be 50% of myself.”
Royals lose their All-Star spark
Witt has been one of Kansas City’s central pieces this season. ESPN reported that he is hitting .279 with 13 home runs, 39 RBIs and an American League-best 30 stolen bases.
Earlier this month, Witt appeared in his third consecutive All-Star Game. According to ESPN, he scored during the American League’s three-run first inning in a 4-0 win.
Velazquez stepped in at shortstop for Wednesday’s game against the Giants, the report said. He last appeared in the majors with the Los Angeles Angels in 2023, then spent time with several organizations’ Triple-A affiliates over the past few seasons.
Kolek’s move to the 60-day IL comes as he deals with a right flexor strain. ESPN reported that he last pitched on July 2 and left a rehab start Saturday.
Kansas City also adds Nate Pearson
The Royals made another move Wednesday, acquiring right-hander Nate Pearson from the Houston Astros, according to ESPN News Services. Houston received pitching prospect Max Martin in the deal.
Pearson had been designated for assignment by the Astros on Sunday, the report said. In 16 games this season, he is 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA.
The Associated Press contributed to ESPN’s report.
This story draws on original reporting from ESPN.com.