"To accommodate Gil Meche's return from the 15-day disabled list, somebody had to go. That person was infielder Mike Aviles.

The Royals announced Sunday morning that Aviles has been sent down to Class AAA Omaha.

The decision means the Royals are carrying 13 pitchers and only 12 position players.

"We need to keep as much pitching as we can right now until we get this bullpen situation ironed out," Royals manager Trey Hillman said before the game.

Hillman said Aviles, who had only one at-bat and zero starts, will play shortstop in Omaha.

"He was disappointed, which we knew he would be," Hillman said. "But he also expressed the trust he has in what we're doing and how we're doing it. He's been here for all five games, and he sees the need (for relief pitching).""