The Kansas City Royals received some tough news this week, and it’s a blow that could shape the rest of their season. Cole Ragans, the team’s ace and breakout star from 2023, is headed back to the injured list, this time with a rotator cuff strain in his throwing shoulder.
While the Royals are hopeful it won’t require surgery, Ragans is expected to be shut down from throwing for a while, and a return before the All-Star break looks unlikely.
Second Opinion on Injury, Royal Prepare For the Worst
Manager Matt Quatraro shared that the left-hander will seek a second opinion next week, but the tone around the clubhouse is already one of concern. It’s been a frustrating year for Ragans, who had already missed time earlier this season with a groin strain.
He returned for one start against the Cardinals on June 5, but after giving up five runs in just three innings, it was clear something wasn’t right. He didn’t feel comfortable in his usual post-start routine, which led to testing and, ultimately, the shoulder diagnosis.
Cole Ragans To Go For Second Opinion On Injured Shoulder https://t.co/WMkcyZHqc7 pic.twitter.com/UDW0OOwjCx
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) June 13, 2025
The timing of this injury couldn’t be worse. After a good start, the Royals have lost their footing and are currently in fourth place in the AL Central, well below .500. Ragans, a lefty with outstanding strikeout ability who placed fourth in last year’s Cy Young voting, was meant to be the rotation’s staple. Additionally, his stuff was still there even if his ERA this season has been inflated, primarily because of some unfortunate luck with balls in play.
Compared to the previous season, he was striking hitters out at an even faster rate. Without him, Kansas City’s rotation now leans heavily on veterans like Seth Lugo, Michael Wacha, and Kris Bubic, as well as younger arms like Noah Cameron. Michael Lorenzen offers depth, and Kyle Wright, currently on a rehab assignment, could be in the mix soon. It’s a group that can hold things together, but it’s not quite the same without Ragans at the top.
Buyers or Sellers for the Trade Deadline?
The Royals are currently at a turning point. At the trade deadline, they might need to think about adding an arm if they can maintain their postseason hopes. However, if they keep losing, it might be wiser to look ahead and begin getting ready for the upcoming season. It’s hard to predict their future course given their 33-34 record and challenging schedule.
For Ragans, recovery is the first priority. The Royals are focused on managing and determining how to maintain their competitiveness in the absence of their ace. The upcoming weeks may determine not only their season but also the team’s future.