Two weeks before the Royals conclude the 2016 regular season, they will offer a potential member of their 2017 starting rotation his first meaningful innings in 14 months.
Royals manager Ned Yost said Thursday that left-hander Jason Vargas will start Saturday, the latest sign of progression as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery.
A span of 422 days without a major-league appearance will dissolve when he takes the mound against the Chicago White Sox. He will be limited to three innings or 45 pitches.
“My arm feels good,” Vargas said, adding, “I’m looking forward to it.