Kolek’s Return Ends in Injury | Kansas City Royals News

Kansas City Royals News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 19, 2026 · 1m

Stephen Kolek, Royals pitcher and new dad, was eager to return from a family pause after his daughter Faye’s early birth, but a right flexor strain during his rehab start forced an early exit. Throwing 51 pitches over 2 2/3 innings, he felt discomfort in the third inning and was pulled by the coaching staff — even though he initially felt better on the mound. Now sidelined on the 15-day injured list, Kolek faces another setback as the Royals battle mounting pitching injuries. Imaging is scheduled for Monday to determine his next steps — a tough blow after finally rejoining the team’s rhythm…