If the Kansas City Royals are going to complete their playoff push, they’ll need the starting rotation to get back to its top form.

That starts with the names at the top of the rotation, who are both facing some challenges — albeit different ones.

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Beginning with Seth Lugo, the Royals made a late change regarding his next turn in the rotation. Previously slated as Thursday’s starter for the series finale against the Angels, the 2024 All-Star will be replaced by left-handed rookie Noah Cameron.

Cameron was given extra rest last week. He’ll make his return and oppose veteran right-hander Kyle Hendricks at Kauffman Stadium. First pitch is set for 6:40 p.m. Central.

Lugo has struggled in recent starts. He posted a 9.11 ERA in six starts last month while logging 21 strikeouts and 18 walks. Lugo addressed his rough patch in an interview with The Star and vowed to work through his issues.

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“Lugo’s got some low back tightness from throwing yesterday and today,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “… Cameron is well-rested. He’s ready to go. We’re gonna start him tomorrow and push Lugo back.”

The Royals begin a weekend series against the Minnesota Twins on Friday. The club will start right-hander Michael Wacha to begin the series and fellow righty Michael Lorenzen on Sunday.

Saturday’s starter hasn’t been announced. There is a chance Lugo could pitch against the Twins, barring a potential setback.

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KC also hopes it’ll have another name back soon.

Cole Ragans injury update

The Royals continue to see progression from ace pitcher Cole Ragans.

The All-Star lefty threw his first live batting practice on Wednesday afternoon. He faced multiple hitters as he looks to return from a left rotator cuff strain.

“He looked good,” Quatraro said pregame Wednesday. “He was healthy and threw the ball free and easy. He got to face hitters — amped up the adrenaline a little bit — and so far so good. He just finished a few minutes ago, but everything was positive.”

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The Royals are hopeful Ragans can pitch in a game soon. It’s the next step as he pushes to return in the upcoming weeks.

This season, Ragans has posted a 5.18 ERA in 10 starts. He’s recorded 76 strikeouts in 48 ⅔ innings while opponents own a .250 batting average against him.

Last year, Ragans posted a 3.14 ERA and, like Lugo, finished top 5 in AL Cy Young voting.