KANSAS CITY -- When Royals manager Trey Hillman wants a Ramirez to start throwing, he'll have to be specific about his request. Left-hander Horacio Ramirez has come aboard to join right-hander Ramon Ramirez in the Kansas City bullpen.

The Royals made a move to fortify the bullpen on Sunday when Horacio Ramirez was brought in from Triple-A Omaha. Right-hander Carlos Rosa was sent to Omaha in a corresponding move and will be used as a starter for the O-Royals.

Horacio Ramirez, 28, signed a Minor League contract with the Royals on May 21. In three starts at Omaha, he was 1-1 with a 1.42 ERA.

"He gives us another left-hander in the bullpen and is able to pitch against left-handed or right-handed [hitters]," Hillman said. "He's stretched out and he's an experienced guy. He'll probably be a long man for the most part, but we'll use him as needed to help get to the guys at the back end."

Horacio Ramirez is 38-29 lifetime with a 4.61 ERA in five Major League seasons. He was released by Seattle during Spring Training this year.

"I was going through some soreness in my shoulder," Ramirez said. "Instead of signing with somebody, I chose to take time off and get it stronger. Now, I'm looking forward to doing the job and helping the team win."

The purchase of Ramirez's contract puts the Royals at 40 on their under control roster.

Hillman said Rosa will benefit from the starting work at Omaha and remains part of the club's long-term plans.

"We believe he's going to be a part of this in the future and maybe even again at some point this season," Hillman said of Rosa.