The Kansas City Royals have made a tough roster move this morning, placing left-handed reliever Matt Strahm on the 10-day Injured List due to a knee issue that arose during last night's game. In a corresponding move, lefty Bailey Falter has been activated from the Injured List to take his place in the bullpen.
Strahm's injury occurred in the ninth inning of Wednesday's contest. After throwing a few uncharacteristic pitches, manager Matt Quatraro and the training staff made a mound visit to check on the veteran. Though they seemed satisfied with what they saw—allowing Strahm to finish the at-bat—the team quickly had John Schreiber warm up in the bullpen. Schreiber entered to face right-handed batter Iván Herrera to close out the inning.
This season, Strahm has been a reliable arm out of the Royals' bullpen since returning to Kansas City. Through 17 appearances, he's posted a 1-1 record with a 3.86 ERA and 17 strikeouts over 16.1 innings pitched. His absence leaves the back end of the bullpen looking notably thin, as he joins closer Carlos Estévez on the IL.
Falter, who hasn't pitched for the Royals since April 1st, has been working his way back with Triple-A Omaha. In 13.1 innings down on the farm, he's been solid, posting a sharp 2.70 ERA. His return adds a fresh left-handed option to a bullpen that's now navigating some adversity early in the season.
For fans keeping an eye on the Royals' roster, this is a situation to watch—especially as the team looks to stabilize its relief corps without two key arms.
