Royals’ Cole Ragans Shut Down with Shoulder Strain
The Kansas City Royals are temporarily without their ace pitcher, Cole Ragans, due to a rotator cuff strain. This setback sidelines the All-Star for a minimum of four weeks, impacting the team’s pitching rotation.
Injury Details and Manager’s Comments
Ragans will be sidelined for a month after being diagnosed with a mild rotator cuff strain. Manager Matt Quatraro confirmed there will be no surgery or injections needed. The team is opting for a period of rest to address the issue.
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“No surgery. No injection. Just rest,”
—Matt Quatraro, Manager
Major League Baseball has seen a rise in rotator cuff injuries in recent years. According to a 2024 report from the Journal of Athletic Training, there was a 15% increase in such injuries compared to the previous five-year average (Journal of Athletic Training).
Recent Performances and Season Overview
The injury occurred after Ragans was re-evaluated after a 15-day injured list stint. The left-hander had previously returned from a left groin strain, pitching only three innings in his last outing. He currently holds a 2-3 record with a 5.18 ERA.
Acquired in a trade in June 2023, Ragans quickly became a key player for the Royals. Last season, he achieved an 11-9 record with a 3.14 ERA, ranking fifth in the league for strikeouts.
The Royals will depend on their other pitchers to step up while Ragans recovers. His absence is a significant blow to the team’s aspirations, and they hope for a speedy recovery.
