KC Royals give injury update on lefty ace Cole Ragans — and it’s positive news
Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro delivered a bit of positive news regarding left-handed ace Cole Ragans on Friday.
Quatraro said that Ragans is dealing with a “very mild” left groin strain. Ragans sustained the injury in Game 1 of Thursday’s doubleheader against the Colorado Rockies at Kauffman Stadium.
“It’s something we think we are going to be able to manage,” Quatraro said.
Ragans left Thursday’s game in the fourth inning. He felt discomfort during his pregame work and his groin tightened up in the first inning. He attempted to stay loose but alerted the Royals training staff and coaches of the issue.
The Royals took precaution as Ragans exited the game. He received treatment and got an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.
“I feel like I’m in a better place today than I was yesterday,” Ragans said. “You know, getting treatment done, it’s definitely a little looser than it was yesterday and even this morning. So trending in the right direction. I don’t know what led to it. Just kind of tightened up on me.”
Ragans labored through three innings. He allowed four earned runs and walked two batters against the Rockies. The injury hindered his effectiveness and ability to command the strike zone.
“Just not commanding the breaking balls as well,” Ragans said. “Stuff didn’t have life to it like it normally does. It definitely affected me.”
Ragans is considered day-to-day with the injury. He will continue to be monitored and receive treatment. The Royals will review his progression before deciding when he’ll start next.
KC is off Monday before beginning a three-game road trip against the Tampa Bay Rays.
“It’s too early to say on that,” Quatraro said of Ragans making his next start. “Today is Day 1 and he feels good today. We are just going to see how these next couple of days go.”
Ragans is hopeful he can make his next start. He has never dealt with a groin injury and mostly feels the tightness when he throws.
“We will see what happens,” Ragans said. “Come in tomorrow and get some more treatment.”
