By Jayson Henderson

On March 23rd, MLB.com reported that second baseman Michael Massey is expected to start the season on the injured list due to lower back tightness. Despite playing light catch, Massey has been held out of baseball activity since March 19th when he was scratched from the Cactus League lineup. The Royals anticipate Massey’s IL stint to be brief but are proceeding cautiously. In his absence, utilityman Nick Loftin and outfielder Dairon Blanco will join the team for Opening Day. Additionally, outfielders Nick Pratto and Drew Waters, along with catcher Austin Nola, were optioned to Triple-A Omaha as the Royals finalize their roster. Various injury updates were provided, including left biceps soreness for pitcher Josh Taylor, a right shoulder impingement for Carlos Hernández, and a left hamstring strain for Jake Brentz.