If the team needs a spot starter or rotation replacement, Medlen and Chris Young will be the top two choices, assuming Young is demoted to the bullpen when Jason Vargas (hip) returns Tuesday.
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The Kansas City Royals have reinstated Kris Medlen from the disabled list, putting the right-handed pitcher back in the majors for the first time since his second Tommy John surgery early previous year.
Medlen, who missed last season after having his second Tommy John surgery in March 2014, was activated by the Kansas City Royals on Monday after six minor league rehab starts.
The Royals made the move before Monday night’s game against Pittsburgh.
“He provides depth down there”, Yost said.
“He’s going to be a long guy, but these things always seem to work themselves out, so I envision him long term being a starter”, Yost said.
“I’m just happy to be here and happy to be in this position where we can get a chance to get back to the postseason”.
Medlen last pitched in the majors in 2013 with Atlanta. Was he relieved to get this one out of the way? The year that he had his rookie year in the big leagues was phenomenal.
“I feel like I did a better job of kind of controlling myself and not losing myself in the moment”.
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Medlen will begin in the Royals’ bullpen, although that could change later in the season.
