Left-hander Ryan Verdugo paid an additional price Wednesday for his poor big-league debut Tuesday when he was optioned to Class AAA Omaha when the Royals replenished their bullpen by recalling lefty Francisley Bueno.

The Royals also confirmed left-handed pitcher Will Smith will be recalled from Omaha in time to start Thursday afternoon’s series finale against Seattle at Kauffman Stadium. A corresponding move will be announced prior to Thursday’s game.

Verdugo, 25, allowed six runs and eight hits in just 1 2/3 innings in Tuesday’s 9-6 loss to the Mariners. He was recalled earlier in the day in a series of roster moves after the Royals designated left-hander Jonathan Sánchez for assignment.

Bueno, 31, made two relief appearances last month in a four-day stay with the big-league club. He is 1-4 with a 2.88 ERA and five saves in 31 games for Omaha.

Smith, 23, is 3-0 in his last four minor-league starts while allowing just four earned runs in 27 2/3 innings. He was 1-2 in three big-league starts earlier this season while allowing 14 runs in 14 innings.

Manager Ned Yost said the rest of the rotation will push back one day to accommodate Smith. That means Luke Hochevar, Luis Mendoza and Everett Teaford will start the three weekend games against Minnesota.