Royals Activated Tony Gonsolin From Injured List
The team reinstated Gonsolin to the major league roster while optioning pitcher Spencer Bivens.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Baseball
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The Kansas City Royals activated pitcher Tony Gonsolin to the major league roster on September 22, 2026. To make room on the roster, the organization optioned Spencer Bivens to the Arizona Complex League.
Why it matters
Gonsolin joins the team following a lengthy recovery from right elbow surgery. His return aims to bolster the pitching staff as the Royals begin a crucial six-game homestand.
Gonsolin posted a 16-1 record with a 2.14 ERA during his 2022 All-Star campaign. The Royals now look to integrate him into their rotation during their six-game homestand.
The players
Tony Gonsolin
He is a professional pitcher who earned All-Star honors in 2022.
Kansas City Royals
This is a professional baseball organization based in Kansas City.
Spencer Bivens
He is a professional pitcher who was optioned to the Arizona Complex League.
The details
After signing with the Royals on August 13, 2026, Gonsolin completed a rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha that began on August 25. He had not pitched in a major league game since June 4, 2025, due to his recovery from right elbow surgery.
Timeline
Tony Gonsolin was an MLB All-Star in 2022.
Gonsolin last appeared in an MLB game on June 4, 2025.
He signed a deal with the Royals on August 13, 2026.
His rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha started August 25, 2026.
The Royals activated him on September 22, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The addition of an experienced arm like Gonsolin provides the Royals with added depth as they navigate the final stretch of the season. His integration into the pitching staff could prove vital for the team as they compete through their upcoming homestand.
The activation forces a roster adjustment, moving Spencer Bivens out of the major league rotation to the Arizona Complex League. Fans should monitor Gonsolin during the upcoming six-game homestand to gauge his effectiveness after his prolonged recovery.
The takeaway
Returning from major surgery requires patience as pitchers adjust to the intensity of big-league competition. Teams often use these late-season returns to evaluate player health and performance in preparation for future roster decisions.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, visit the Baseball section.
Live Poll
Do you expect players returning from long-term injury to immediately perform at their previous All-Star level?
