The Kansas City Royals scratched Jac Caglianone from Sunday’s starting lineup against the Detroit Tigers because of right ankle soreness, giving the rookie another day to recover from an issue that has lingered for more than a week.
The Royals announced the lineup change through their official X account. Caglianone remained available as a potential emergency pinch-hitter, suggesting Kansas City was taking a precautionary approach rather than making a long-term roster decision.
Caglianone initially aggravated the ankle during Wednesday’s 9-7 win over the Athletics. After beating out an infield single in the first inning, the 23-year-old appeared to experience discomfort and was later replaced by John Rave as a pinch-hitter in the fifth.
He then sat out Thursday before returning to the lineup Friday and Saturday. The continued soreness prompted the Royals to hold him out again Sunday, with the club opting not to push him through another game.
The timing is significant because Caglianone has been one of Kansas City’s most productive hitters. He entered Sunday with a .276 batting average, 22 home runs and 60 RBIs through 121 games, according to StatMuse.
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His August production has been particularly impressive. Before the initial injury, Caglianone was batting .429 with a .446 on-base percentage and .746 slugging percentage during the month, while also recording five home runs and 20 RBIs.
With Caglianone out, John Rave moves into right field while Kansas City adjusts the rest of its lineup against Detroit. The Royals are also managing another notable injury, with third baseman Maikel Garcia dealing with a left hamstring strain.
For Kansas City, the priority is keeping Caglianone healthy for the final stretch of the season. Given his recent production, avoiding a setback is more important than forcing him into the lineup while the ankle remains sore.
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