Royals recall right-hander Luinder Avila for his first major league start Friday against the Brewers, while Michael Wacha exits due to illness. The move creates space by placing Bailey Falter on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation. Avila, 24, previously appeared in 13 games last season, allowing two runs on seven hits over 14 innings.

His strong World Baseball Classic performance—no earned runs in two appearances—cements his readiness for the big leagues. Wacha, a key rotation piece, was scratched last-minute, forcing manager Matt Quigg to reshuffle the lineup. The Royals’ decision to prioritize depth over trading pitching assets last offseason now proves strategic, as Avila’s call-up adds flexibility without sacrificing veteran arms like Seth Lugo and Kris Bubic, who remain in the rotation for Saturday and Sunday. The shift highlights Kansas City’s focus on maintaining a balanced roster amid injury uncertainty.