Rich Pilling/MLB Photos via Getty Images(KANSAS CITY, Mo.) — Kansas City Royals skipper Ned Yost has elected to scratch pitcher Yordano Ventura from his start Wednesday while the rookie deals with a sore back.
Ventura complained of pain in his lower back after his start last Friday night against the Rangers. An MRI revealed inflammation but no damage.
The Royals are currently 1.5 games ahead of the Detroit Tigers for first place in the American League Central.
“There’s the hope that he’s not going to miss anything more. He’s made good progress to this point. He’s feeling much better,” Yost said. “We could try to push it, but it doesn’t make much sense right now. Let him get through it.”
The Royals called up 25-year-old Liam Hendriks from Triple-A Omaha to take Ventura’s place.
Hendriks has pitched 143 innings this season split between Omaha and Buffalo. During that time, he has compiled a 12-2 record with a 2.45 ERA, 126 strikeouts and 13 walks.
Ventura has been solid all season for the Royals, posting a 10-9 record with a 3.40 ERA and 125 strikeouts in 145 2/3 innings pitched.
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