Royals have important role ready for speedster Tyler Tolbert in return to majors
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Royals recalled utilityman Tyler Tolbert from Triple-A Omaha to provide speed.
- Tolbert will assume a late-inning pinch-runner role.
- The Royals designated catcher Elias Diaz for assignment after adding Tolbert.
The Kansas City Royals have added more speed on the basepaths. On Friday, the club recalled utilityman Tyler Tolbert from Triple-A Omaha.
Tolbert returns after making the Royals’ opening day roster. He will resume his previous role as pinch-runner in the late innings.
“It’s always a good feeling to have him as a pinch-runner, specifically, or have that safety blanket as a guy that can play multiple positions in case of need,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.
Tolbert received additional work with the Storm Chasers at Triple-A Omaha. He played different infield spots and also saw time in the outfield. He also gained reps to improve his plate discipline and bunting in key situations.
“Just preparing every day like a starter because you never know when your number might be called,” Tolbert said. “But I know my role on this team and I know what I’m being asked to do. Just every day is the same preparation, no matter if I’m coming off the bench or starting. It’s the same mindset.”
Tolbert hit .260 with five RBIs, eight stolen bases and 12 walks with Omaha. He garnered just five at-bats in his previous stint with the Royals, but his role will be predicated on providing a spark off the bench.
“It’s just making an impact on the bases, or in the box, or on defense,” Tolbert said. “Just wherever the game may take me that day. Just trying to do things to help the team win. I’m an energetic guy, so it’s a good kind of role to be in. You know, you can change the game, impact the game, any possible thing.”
In a corresponding move, the Royals designated veteran catcher Elias Diaz for assignment. If he clears waivers, he has the option of electing to pursue free agency or returning to the organization.
Diaz performed well with the Royals. He was utilized as a third catcher behind Salvador Perez and Carter Jensen. In his short stint, Diaz hit .227 with two homers and five RBIs across 10 games.
The Royals feel comfortable with Perez playing regularly behind the plate. He dealt with a sore hip but has shown improvement in recent days.
“We need to continue to monitor that and what his workload is in those conversations,” Quatraro said of Perez. “But yes, we definitely feel good about that.”
This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 6:15 PM with the headline "Royals have important role ready for speedster Tyler Tolbert in return to majors."
