Kyle Zimmer Undergoes Minor Procedure to Remove Loose Bodies from his Right Elbow

KANSAS CITY, MO (August 23, 2012) — The Kansas City Royals today announced that right-handed pitcher Kyle Zimmer, the club’s 2012 first-round selection, underwent a minor surgical procedure yesterday in Kansas City at the KU Medical Center to remove loose bodies from his right elbow.

“This procedure was anticipated for Kyle upon physical exam during the draft selection process, so it did not come as a surprise,” said Royals head athletic trainer Nick Kenney. “We feel very good about the outcome and expect a full recovery in six to eight weeks.  We do not anticipate this procedure will alter any of Kyle’s off-season preparation for the 2013 season.”

The 20-year-old Zimmer has pitched with Surprise (R) and Kane County (A) this season, combining for a 3-3 record with a 2.04 ERA in nine starts.  Over 39.2 innings, the 6-foot-3 right-hander struck out 42 and walked eight, allowing just one home run.  Zimmer was selected by the Royals as the fifth-overall pick on June 4 in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of San Francisco and signed three days later on June 7.

For additional information, members of the media may contact the Royals Media Relations Department at (816) 921-8000.