Infante's return may lead to KC roster move

MINNEAPOLIS -- Another roster move could be in the works, pending how well Omar Infante does in his return from being struck by a pitch.

Left-hander Danny Duffy was held out of his scheduled start for Triple-A Omaha on Friday at the Kansas City organization's request, according to the Omaha World Herald. That could indicate a recall to the Royals for Duffy. The Royals did not confirm Duffy's status for Friday's Minors start.

Second baseman Johnny Giavotella was recalled on Wednesday to fill in for Infante and the resultant shuffle of pitchers left the Royals with just 11 on the staff instead of the 12 preferred by manager Ned Yost.

Meantime, Giavotella is on the roster in case Infante needs backup. If Giavotella is no longer deemed necessary, he could be returned and Duffy brought up for bullpen duty.

Duffy was sent to Omaha out of Spring Training on the theory that he'd get stretched out in the rotation in case help was needed by Kansas City. But so far, he's made just one start, getting the victory with six innings in which he gave up two runs.

There's been no problems among the Royals' starters so far; in the first eight games, they combined for a collective 2.03 ERA. The relievers, however, have had some glitches (5.79 ERA) and there's no left-hander currently in the bullpen.