Stephen Kolek Comes Off IL, Set To Start Tonight For Royals

[Steve Drumwright]

 

It is Stephen Kolek's turn to see what he can do in the Kansas City Royals' rotation.

The right-handed starter was activated from the 15-day injured list following an oblique injury and will start Tuesday's home game against the Cleveland Guardians. Right-handed reliever Mason Black was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

We have made the following roster moves:

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— Kansas City Royals (@royals.com) May 5, 2026 at 12:03 PM

The Royals' rotation has had trouble with consistency this season, just one of the reasons the team sits at 16-19. Kolek, acquired from the San Diego Padres at last year's trade deadline in the Freddy Fermin deal, was impressive in five starts for the Royals in 2025. In 33 innings, he had a 4% walk and 16.8% strikeout rate with a .168 opponent batting average. Kolek had a 2.76 ERA in four rehab appearances with Omaha.

Black didn't allow a run in his four relief appearances, walking two and striking out five in 4⅔ innings.

 

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