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The Royals have demoted right-handed reliever Aaron Crow to AA Northwest Arkansas to make room for tonight's starting pitcher Liam Hendriks. Crow is one of the few relievers to have options remaining, unlike Bruce Chen or Francisley Bueno. Crow had struggled of late but had a 3.86 ERA in 51 1/3 innings, although he has a career worst 5.1 strikeouts per nine innings and a FIP of 5.45. Roster can be expanded on Monday, but Crow must spend at least ten days in the minor leagues before being recalled.
Crow had given up six runs in his last four outings, spanning 3 1/3 innings. The former first-round pick had given up 14 runs in his last 12 2/3 innings. Earlier this week, Ned Yost said he hoped Crow could rebound for the stretch run.
Liam Hendriks has his contract purchased from Omaha to make tonight's start against Minnesota. Hendriks had a 2.83 ERA in five starts for Omaha with 35 strikeouts and just five walks.