Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a strained left hamstring sustained while covering first base in a game against the Cleveland Guardians. Lorenzen, who joined the Royals in a trade with Texas in July, left the field after 1 2/3 scoreless innings and is set to undergo an MRI to assess the extent of the injury.

The 32-year-old right-hander has been a key player for the Royals since his arrival, boasting a 2-0 record with a 1.85 ERA in five starts. Overall, Lorenzen holds a 7-6 record and a 3.43 ERA in 24 appearances this season. His absence is a significant blow to the Royals, who are currently tied for the AL Central lead with Cleveland.

In response to Lorenzen’s injury, 6-foot-7 right-handed reliever Steven Cruz has been called up from Triple-A Omaha to bolster the pitching staff. Additionally, left-hander Cole Ragans, who experienced leg cramping during a recent game against the Guardians, is expected to make his next start against Houston after the minor injury was addressed.

The Royals will need to adjust their lineup and pitching rotation in the absence of Lorenzen, as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the AL Central standings. The team has not disclosed the timetable for Lorenzen’s return, pending further evaluation of his hamstring injury.