Lucas Erceg

The Royals optioned Lucas Erceg to Triple-A Omaha.

Fantasy Impact

Erceg has continued to struggle in August. He'll look to work on some things in Triple-A.

Lucas Erceg allowed three runs, one earned, on two hits over one inning in Friday's 7-6 win over the Padres.

Fantasy Impact

After Friday's win over the Padres, Erceg now has a 5.21 ERA and 1.63 WHIP with 12 saves, six blown saves and three holds through 39 appearances. He gave up three runs in the top of the 10th inning before being bailed out by his offense.

Lucas Erceg allowed two hits without a walk or strikeout while tossing a scoreless frame to earn the save in Sunday's 6-5 win over the Twins.

Fantasy Impact

After Sunday's win over the Twins, Erceg now has a 6.00 ERA and 1.96 WHIP with 12 saves, six blown saves and one hold across 26 appearances. The Royals entered the bottom of the ninth inning with a five-run lead. That lead was given up by Beck Way, who gave up four total earned runs. Erceg was then called upon to clean it up, where he gave up another two hits. Alex Lange has gotten the three previous saves, but it's anyone's guess who gets the next.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said Wednesday that he will play the matchups in the ninth inning for the short term.

Fantasy Impact

Quatraro added that he still views Erceg as the long-term closer. Alex Lange recorded his first save on Wednesday after Erceg blew his sixth save of the season on Tuesday.

Lucas Erceg took his second consecutive loss on Saturday, allowing five straight hits, including a home run, and three runs, without recording an out.

Fantasy Impact

After this outing, Erceg has a 6.33 ERA and a 1.92 WHIP with 11 saves, three wins and three losses across 21.1 innings. He's allowed at least two earned runs in three straight appearances, and has allowed a run in five of his last six chances. The Royals have to look to someone else for their next save opportunity.