The Kansas City Royals have optioned slumping outfielder Jorge Soler to Triple-A Omaha on Saturday, recalling Billy Burns to take his place on the roster.

Soler was the Royals' prize acquisition in a trade that sent reliever Wade Davis to the Chicago Cubs.

The Royals sent Davis to the Cubs in the hopes that Soler, 25, could solidify right field not only for this season but well into the future. But the big slugger has been slowed by injuries, including a strained oblique, and was hitting .164 with one homer and six RBI in 18 games.

Jorge Bonifacio has played well in Soler's place, hitting .281 with seven homers and 16 RBIs.

Davis was to become a free agent after this season, a big reason Kansas City was willing to part with him. He's 2-0 with 10 saves and a 0.98 ERA in 19 appearances for Chicago.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.