Some Royals fans unhappy players who missed Toronto series are back from restricted list

The Royals made a series of roster moves Monday that were expected, but some fans were nonetheless displeased.

Pitchers Dylan Coleman, Brad Keller and Brady Singer were reinstated from the restricted list, along with catchers Cam Gallagher and MJ Melendez, outfielders Michael A. Taylor, Andrew Benintendi and Kyle Isbel, second baseman Whit Merrifield and infielder/outfielder Hunter Dozier.

The 10 players were on the restricted list because they’re unvaccinated and couldn’t travel to Canada. They missed all four games against the Blue Jays in Toronto.

Their replacements were all returned to their minor-league affiliates.

These were strictly procedural moves, but some Royals fans were unhappy to see the 10 return.

Merrifield has since clarified comments he made about possibly getting the vaccine if traded, while Benintendi is in Los Angeles for Tuesday’s All-Star Game.

Although a few were happy about the return of the 10, many fans voiced their displeasure on Twitter and Reddit. Here is a sample of what was being said.

A fan on Reddit wrote: “I mean I get it but it’s still annoying and a kick in the nuts. I’d rather lose with people that want to win, then win with people that don’t like the team they play for. But oh well, life goes on.”

Another added: “These kids deserve to play. Trade or release those who are not team players.”

A Reddit user wrote: “I’m giving nothing but scornful side-eye glances to ‘the 10’ for the duration of their time in KC. (Selfish) is the only word for it. It’s a team sport.”