Thomas is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rays.
Thomas will head to the bench for the first time since June 12, ending a streak of 10 starts during which he produced a .220/.289/.512 slash line with three home runs, seven RBI and seven runs. The Royals should have a near-everyday role available in the outfield for Thomas while the team currently has three lineup regulars -- Maikel Garcia (hand), Vinnie Pasquantino (hand) and Kyle Isbel (foot) -- on the injured list.