AL Central Notes: Nate Karns could undergo surgery, Victor Martinez’s 2,000th career hit

Royals right-hander Nate Karns might need to undergo surgery after experiencing forearm discomfort, prompting the team to consider keeping him sidelined for the remainder of the year, according to Rustin Dodd of The Kansas City Star.

Karns left a start in May with the injury.

Over 45.1 innings this season, Karns has pitched to a 4.17 ERA and 4.48 FIP. He hasn’t surpassed 100 innings since 2015.

Because Karns is a controllable player, the Royals could be OK with allowing him to take his time before pitching again.

Here’s the latest from around the American League Central:

• There aren’t many Jose Quintana-type players on the market, so the White Sox might have an advantage in trade talks.
• Joe Mauer is headed to the disabled list in a move that was seemingly all but expected.
• Victor Martinez recorded his 2,000th career hit, a notable moment in his career.
• The return of Cleveland’s outfielders highlighted the team’s transactions this week.
• Matt Strahm is out for the season in more bad injury news for the Royals.