After days of speculation and cautious optimism, the Kansas City Royals have officially announced that reliever Hunter Harvey is set to make his return to the mound next Friday, following what team doctors described as a “remarkably strong recovery” from a Grade 1 teres major strain.
The team revealed the news during a press conference Monday afternoon, stating that Harvey had “exceeded all expectations” during his rehab sessions in Kansas City. The evaluation included advanced imaging, biomechanical analysis, and several bullpen tests — all of which reportedly showed zero setbacks.
“Hunter’s progress has been nothing short of outstanding,” said Royals manager Matt Quatraro. “The medical team was thorough, the rehab plan was aggressive but smart, and most importantly, Hunter feels great. We’re confident he’ll be ready to rejoin the bullpen by next weekend.”
Harvey, who had gotten off to a lights-out start this season with 5 1/3 scoreless innings, had fans buzzing after he was seen throwing at near full velocity during a closed-door session Sunday. Sources say his fastball touched 98 mph, and his signature breaking ball had “elite movement,” according to bullpen coach Larry Carter.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/74018330/2209094287.0.jpg)
The Royals are expected to activate Harvey just in time for a critical home series against the Minnesota Twins, where he could return to his setup role alongside Carlos Estévez and Lucas Erceg. With the bullpen already performing at a high level, Harvey’s return is seen as a major boost for a team that’s chasing an early-season surge in the AL Central.
“This is exactly the kind of news Royals fans needed,” said one front office insider. “Harvey’s energy, leadership, and strikeout stuff make a difference. And now, he’s back.”
