Late camp start due to positive COVID-19 test lands Junis on injured list

The Kansas City Royals have placed pitcher Jakob Junis on the injured list, where he will be when the season opens Friday.

Junis got a late start to summer camp following a positive test for COVID-19, the team announced. He was cleared to participate in baseball activities more than a week ago but does not feel ready for regular-season competition.

“It’s unfortunate, but I need to take a step back and get caught up before I’ll be able to contribute the way I feel I’m capable to help this team,” Junis said. “My start in camp after the quarantine period was delayed due to a positive COVID-19 test and while I’ve been cleared, I am not built up to be where I need to be to start the season. After talking to (manager) Mike (Matheny) and (pitching coach) Cal (Eldred), it became clear that the best course of action would be for me to return to the IL and continue to throw and prepare to contribute when I’m ready.”

The 27-year-old right-hander’s absence opens a spot in the Kansas City rotation.