Royals Injury Update: Seth Lugo, Ryan Bergert, and Bailey Falter Status

The Kansas City Royals are facing late-season injury problems. Veteran starter Seth Lugo is unlikely to return in 2025. Rookie Ryan Bergert is sidelined but expected to be ready by spring. Bailey Falter has begun a rehab assignment in Triple-A.

These updates come as the Royals finish a tough September. The team has battled through a poor second half, and injuries have only made the challenge greater. According to MLB reports, the Royals will finish short-handed for much of the stretch run.

Seth Lugo’s Return Looks Doubtful

Seth Lugo has been out since early September with a back strain. The Royals manager called his return a “long shot.” While Lugo is said to be feeling better, he has not yet thrown.

His second half numbers were concerning. In 44.1 innings after the All-Star break, he allowed a 7.51 ERA, 1.78 WHIP, and a .302 opponent average. The Royals gave him a contract extension earlier in the year, but his late-season struggles have been hard to ignore.

The best path forward may be rest. Lugo has been a proven starter for years, but the Royals appear set to look toward 2026 for his rebound.

Ryan Bergert’s MRI Brings Mixed Results

Ryan Bergert, the promising rookie, was placed on the injured list with an elbow strain. An MRI showed a mild flexor strain. The good news is that doctors expect him to be healthy for spring training.

Bergert had shown promise in limited time. His performances gave the Royals confidence in his role for 2026. With two more pre-arbitration years, he remains part of the long-term plan.

While his 2025 season is done, the Royals were relieved to learn his injury will not require surgery. That alone is a big win for the club’s future depth.

Bailey Falter Completes First Rehab Outing

Bailey Falter made his first rehab start for Triple-A Omaha. He pitched one inning, allowed one hit and one walk, but no runs. It marked his first outing in nearly a month due to a left bicep contusion.

His time in Kansas City has been difficult. In 12 innings with the Royals, Falter posted an 11.25 ERA and 2.25 WHIP. Despite that, he has three years of arbitration left, so the team is expected to keep him in the mix.

Even if he does not pitch again in the majors this season, his recovery adds depth to the Royals’ options. He could compete for a bullpen or rotation spot in 2026.

The Royals remain battered by injuries. Lugo may not return, Bergert is done for the year, and Falter is still working his way back. But each case also gives the team a clearer picture of its pitching plans beyond 2025. This Royals injury update shows short-term pain but long-term hope.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Royals injury update?

Seth Lugo is unlikely to return this season. Ryan Bergert is out with a mild flexor strain but should be ready for spring. Bailey Falter has started a rehab assignment in Triple-A.

Q2: Will Seth Lugo pitch again in 2025?

It appears unlikely. His back strain has kept him from throwing, and the team has called his return a long shot.

Q3: What did Ryan Bergert’s MRI show?

The MRI showed a mild flexor strain. Doctors expect him to be healthy in time for 2026 spring training.

Q4: How did Bailey Falter perform in his rehab start?

He pitched one inning for Triple-A Omaha. He gave up one hit and one walk but allowed no runs.

Q5: What does this mean for the Royals’ future plans?

The team will likely rest Lugo, bring Bergert back in 2026, and keep Falter in the mix for rotation or bullpen depth. The injuries shape how they plan their pitching staff.