BREAKING: The Kansas City Royals have placed infielder/outfielder Nick Loftin on the seven-day concussion injured list following a head injury sustained during Tuesday’s game against the Chicago Cubs. In a swift move, the team has recalled outfielder MJ Melendez from Triple-A Omaha just hours before Wednesday’s series finale at Wrigley Field.
Loftin’s injury occurred in the fifth inning of the Royals’ 6-0 loss to the Cubs when he was struck in the head while tagging out Pete Crow-Armstrong. The Royals confirmed that Loftin is suffering from a “very mild concussion,” as diagnosed after the game, raising concerns for his immediate playing future.
The Royals are taking precautions with their roster. Both shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker received the day off to manage their respective knee soreness. They are expected to benefit from an off day on Thursday, allowing them two days to recover before the next game.
Loftin, 26, has struggled this season with a batting average of .216, tallying three home runs and 13 RBIs in 37 games. In contrast, Melendez returns to the big leagues after a challenging start to the season, having batted just .085 with one home run and one RBI in 16 games earlier this year. During his time in Omaha, Melendez improved significantly, boasting a batting average of .252 with 13 home runs and 43 RBIs over 72 games.
Witt’s knee issue reportedly worsened when he dodged an inside pitch from Matthew Boyd on Tuesday, although he remained in the game as designated hitter. Meanwhile, Tucker sustained his knee injury from a foul ball but continued to play.
As the Royals navigate these roster changes, fans will be watching closely to see how Loftin’s absence impacts the team’s performance and how Melendez capitalizes on his opportunity. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.