"Even milder oblique strains can cost players upwards of a month. That the Royals are deeming this a Grade 1 "plus" suggests it's on the more severe side for a Grade 1 strain. A firm timetable won't be known until he's reevaluated after his shutdown, but with Opening Day one month out and Kolek in no-throw mode for the next week, it seems fair to suggest this calls his availability for the season opener into question."
"Kolek had an uphill battle to claiming a spot in a rotation currently occupied by Cole Ragans, Michael Wacha, Noah Cameron and others, but he's at or near the top of the list for sixth starter options in Kansas City. The 28-year-old righty, who came to the Royals alongside Ryan Bergert in the July trade sending catcher Freddy Fermin to San Diego, started 19 games between the Friars and Royals in 2025 and posted a combined 3.51 ERA."
"Since Kolek has minor league options remaining, he might be bound for Triple-A even if he's able to return to the mound and sufficiently ramp up in time for Opening Day. A lengthier absence would compromise Kansas City's depth, although they've improved on that front over the past year."
Stephen Kolek of the Kansas City Royals received a Grade 1+ oblique strain diagnosis following additional testing. The Grade 1 designation with a plus modifier indicates a more severe case within that category. He will be completely shut down for approximately one week before reevaluation. Even mild oblique strains typically sideline players for a month or longer, making his Opening Day availability questionable. Kolek, acquired from San Diego in July, competed for a sixth starter role after posting a 3.51 ERA across 19 starts in 2025. His strong walk rate and ground-ball rates were notable strengths, though his strikeout rate lagged league average. The Royals possess minor league options for Kolek and have developed rotation depth through Noah Cameron's strong rookie performance.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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