Kansas City Royals activate Edward Olivares from IL. How that affects roster & lineup

Jaylon Thompson
·2 min read
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The Kansas City Royals activated outfielder Edward Olivares from the 10-day injured list prior to Tuesday’s game against the Detroit Tigers.

Olivares missed the last six games with a left oblique strain. In a corresponding move, the Royals optioned infielder Samad Taylor — who had a memorable debut earlier this year when he came through with a walk-off hit — to Triple-A Omaha.

“I feel great and I was working hard to be back soon,” Olivares said.

Olivares had previously said he felt discomfort against the Cleveland Guardians. The Royals took precaution and placed him on the injured list ahead of the All-Star break. Olivares received additional time to rest and prepare for the second half of the season.

The Royals monitored Olivares through his recovery. He received massage treatment and mobility tests. This week, Olivares also took swings in the batting cage and participated in fielding drills with no lingering issues.

“Yesterday I took a light batting practice and I feel good,” Olivares said. “I am ready to play.”

Olivares will be the Royals designated hitter against the Tigers. He is set to bat seventh in the lineup. His memorable year thus far has included time as an outfielder, including one game when he smashed a home run that broke part of the scoreboard in Kauffman Stadium. He also had a brief stint on the restricted list.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said Olivares will return to the outfield rotation. However, he is likely to draw more starts at designated hitter going forward. Olivares is also a candidate to be a key pinch hitter in crucial situations.

“If he is not starting, he is a good option to come off the bench anytime to hit against righties or lefties,” Quatraro said.

This season, Olivares is hitting .242 with six home runs and 15 RBIs. In June, Olivares recorded 21 hits, five doubles, two triples and two home runs.

Taylor returns to Triple-A Omaha. He hit .152 with five hits and three RBIs in 13 games played.