Kansas City Royals right-hander Stephen Kolek will be sidelined after suffering a left oblique strain, the club announced Thursday. Team officials indicated that Kolek is expected to miss at least five to seven days, with the timeline subject to change depending on how quickly the injury responds to treatment and how severe the strain ultimately proves to be.
Kolek had been in the mix as a candidate for a spot in the Royals’ starting rotation heading into the season. The setback comes at a time when clubs typically evaluate multiple options for both starting and long-relief roles, making every spring inning and side session important for pitchers trying to secure a job.
Oblique strains are a common injury for pitchers, as the muscle group plays a key role in rotational movement during the throwing motion. Even a mild strain can limit a pitcher’s ability to generate torque and maintain command, often leading teams to proceed cautiously to avoid setbacks. The usual approach involves rest, followed by a gradual return to throwing, with close monitoring for any recurrence of discomfort.
The Royals will likely use the coming days to further evaluate Kolek’s condition and determine next steps in his recovery plan. The initial five-to-seven-day window reflects a short-term shutdown period rather than a firm return date. If the strain is determined to be more significant, Kolek’s absence could extend further into camp.
For now, the club will adjust its pitching schedule while Kolek focuses on treatment and rehabilitation. His status will become clearer as he progresses through the early stages of his recovery and attempts to resume baseball activities.
