KANSAS CITY -- Right-hander Kyle Zimmer, the Royals' No. 2 overall prospect according to MLBPipeline.com, has been slowed by some shoulder issues and is remaining in Arizona at extended spring camp for the time being.
Zimmer had been optioned to Triple-A Omaha last month, but he is not on the Stormchasers' 25-man roster.
"He's slowed up and in extended [spring]," Royals assistant general manager J.J. Picollo said. "He needs more time before he's ready to get out. [His] shoulder has been a little erratic -- some great days and some so-so days, so we slowed him up."
Zimmer made three appearances in big league camp this year and gave up just one run in six innings. But in his last Grapefruit League outing, Zimmer's velocity dipped from 94-95 mph to 88-89 mph. He attributed the loss of velocity to the typical "dead arm" pitchers can get at that time of camp.
The Royals do not have a set timetable for Zimmer to be sent to Omaha.
"He's day to day right now," Picollo said. "He's throwing side [sessions] starting next week, and we will determine it day to day."
Zimmer, who was Kansas City's first-round pick (fifth overall) in the 2012 Draft, has battled several injuries during his brief career.
The Royals' level of concern for his latest injury issue?
"We're more concerned for his psyche than his health," Picollo said.