Royals All-Star Cole Ragans Shut Down Four Weeks Shoulder Strain

Kansas City Royals left-hander Cole Ragans has been diagnosed with a mild rotator cuff strain and will be shut down from throwing for four weeks from the last time he pitched, with no surgery or injections required, only rest. Ragans, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list, received a second opinion confirming the initial diagnosis. This injury follows a previous stint on the injured list due to a left groin strain earlier this season. The 27-year-old All-Star was acquired in a June 2023 trade with Texas and had a strong 2024 season, but this year he has struggled with a 5.18 ERA in 10 starts. Manager Matt Quatraro emphasized the importance of rest and recovery, with Ragans scheduled for re-evaluation in early July to determine if he can begin a throwing progression. The Royals are relying on depth and health from their pitching staff during Ragans' recovery period.