Kansas City Royals’ Vinnie Pasquantino is back in the lineup for Wild Card games
.jpg "Kansas City Royals designated hitter Vinnie Pasquantino (9) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the fourth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Kauffman Stadium on Aug. 7, 2024.")
Well ahead of schedule from a late-season injury, Kansas City Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino is set to return ahead of Game 1 of the American League Wild Card series against the Baltimore Orioles.
In fact, he’s in Tuesday’s lineup, batting third as the designated hitter.
Pasquantino was added to the Royals’ playoff roster on Tuesday morning. He will operate as a DH upon returning. Royals manager Matt Quatraro confirmed that Pasquantino will not play first base on Monday.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Royals teased Pasquantino’s return with an image of a “Pasquatch” on their X/Twitter account.
The Royals placed Pasquantino on the 10-day injured list after he fractured his right thumb against the Houston Astros on Aug. 29. Pasquantino’s hand collided with Astros catcher Yainer Diaz as he attempted to field an incoming throw.
Pasquantino underwent surgery and was given an injury timeline of six-to-eight weeks. However, he has made remarkable progress in a short period. Pasquantino was seen taking live batting practice twice in recent weeks.
He hit a home run off Royals reliever Steven Cruz in a live hitting session at Truist Park. On Monday, Pasquantino hit in the batting cage and went through more simulated drills during a workout from Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
“It’s remarkable that he’s in the position he’s in, for us to even be thinking about him playing on Tuesday,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said on Bally Sports’ broadcast last Saturday.
The Royals say they don’t have any long-term concerns regarding Pasquantino’s injury. They say they have been transparent with him throughout the rehab process. He has remained in communication with the medical staff in detailing how he feels.
This season, Pasquantino hit .262 with 19 home runs and 97 RBIs.
The Royals are excited to re-insert Pasquantino back into the lineup. He offers protection for Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. and team captain Salvador Perez.
“He is a huge piece just because of what he’s done,” Witt said. “... Just his presence is huge.”
Game 1 will begin on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 3:08 p.m. Central. Royals left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans draws the start in the AL Wild Card series opener.
This story was originally published October 1, 2024 at 9:22 AM.
