Bobby Witt Jr. is still out of the lineup with a knee injury. On Monday, he missed his sixth straight game.
What happened?
The Royals' shortstop has been dealing with a low-grade MCL sprain in his right knee. He's been available off the bench for the last two games but hasn't entered either one.
Why it matters for Bobby Witt Jr.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s injury has kept him out of the lineup for an extended period. He was able to field grounders and take batting practice for the second straight day at Tropicana Field.
The Royals are being cautious with their star shortstop. Tyler Tolbert will continue to play shortstop and bat ninth.
What comes next?
Bobby Witt Jr. could return to the lineup soon. The Royals are willing to ride out his injury until he's ready to return.
On Friday, Bobby Witt Jr. went 0-for-3 with a walk in his first game back after a six-game absence. He's been working out and getting accustomed to wearing a knee brace.
The Royals had two players pinch hit in the eighth and ninth innings in Wednesday's loss to the Rays, but neither of them was Bobby Witt Jr.
Bobby Witt Jr. has been out of the lineup for five straight games now. He was reportedly available off the bench on Tuesday but did not enter the game.
The Royals are taking a similar approach to when Maikel Garcia was battling a hamstring strain earlier this year.
Bobby Witt Jr. is feeling better each day, and his return to the lineup could give the Royals a much-needed boost.
The Royals will continue to monitor Bobby Witt Jr.'s progress and make a decision on his return to the lineup soon.