Royals’ Jason Vargas heads to disabled list with flexor strain

DETROIT – Royals pitcher Jason Vargas strained a flexor muscle in his left elbow, an alarming injury that could sideline him for months. The muscle protects the ulnar collateral ligament, so this injury is often a precursor to Tommy John surgery.

The injury to Vargas, who will go on the 15-day disabled list, is the most debilitating for the club among a flurry of roster maneuvers before Friday’s game with Detroit.

Mike Moustakas also left the club for a family emergency and was placed on the bereavement list. He is eligible to return on Monday against Texas.

Yohan Pino received a promotion to take Vargas’ roster spot. The team is expected to shift Chris Young into Vargas’ place in the rotation. Vargas was scheduled to pitch on Sunday.

In one positive bit of news, the Royals activated shortstop Alcides Escobar from the seven-day disabled list for his concussion.

The final move involved adding backup catcher Drew Butera to the roster. Francisco Peña was optioned to Triple-A Omaha.

This story was originally published May 8, 2015 at 2:28 PM with the headline "Royals’ Jason Vargas heads to disabled list with flexor strain."