KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals first baseman Eric Hosmer is back in the lineup for Tuesday night’s game against Minnesota after starting just once in the last seven games because of a bruised hand.

Hosmer pronounced himself fit after taking batting practice against rehabbing left-hander Jason Vargas, who threw four innings in a simulated game at Kauffman Stadium.

Vargas has been on the disabled list since July 10 following an appendectomy. Manager Ned Yost says it is possible he could return to the rotation this weekend.

In other news, backup catcher Erik Kratz and touted prospect Christian Colon arrived in the clubhouse following Monday’s trade with Toronto. Kratz came over from the Blue Jays while Colon was recalled from Triple-A Omaha to take the spot of departed infielder Danny Valencia.