Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has been placed on the injured list for the first time in his career due to lower back tightness. The move is retroactive to Tuesday, and Witt will miss at least 10 days. He cited his inability to play at even 50% of his capabilities as the reason for his IL placement.

Witt, 26, is having a strong season, batting .279 with 13 home runs, 39 RBIs, and an AL-leading 30 steals. He was also selected to his third consecutive All-Star Game this month. Infielder Andrew Velazquez was called up from Triple-A Omaha to replace Witt on the roster.

In other roster moves, right-hander Stephen Kolek was transferred to the 60-day IL. The Royals also acquired right-hander Nate Pearson from the Houston Astros in a trade, sending pitching prospect Max Martin to Houston.