The Royals began their juggling of the 40-man roster today by outrighting right-handed pitcher Nate Karns from the 40-man roster and losing left-hander Jerry Vasto on waivers to the Cubs.
The Royals needed to activate four players from the 60-day disabled list this week - Karns, Jesse Hahn, Jorge Soler, and Cheslor Cuthbert. Jason Hammel and Alcides Escobar were granted free agency, opening up two roster spots. Losing Vasto on waivers opens another, and the Royals simply outrighted Karns to Omaha. He rejected his assignment, making him a free agent.
Karns was acquired from the Royals in a trade with the Mariners before the 2017 season for outfielder Jarrod Dyson.