Royals say Matt Quatraro expected to return Wednesday following mother’s death at 84

Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro is expected to rejoin the club on Wednesday after missing two games for what the Royals termed a personal matter . The club has since confirmed to The Star that Quatraro’s absence was for a memorial service for his mother, Dorann M. Stagnitta, who died recently.

Quatraro attended memorial services alongside his family this week. An obituary was posted on Aug. 17 by the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home.

“Always a supportive mom and wife, always an understanding ear, a diligent worker, incredibly steady and level headed all while being fiercely independent,” the obituary reads, noting she was a dedicated teacher and spent several years working in special education. “In her free time, she enjoyed reading, painting and watching baseball. ...

“She also has cherished relationships developed through baseball connections as well as friends she made later in life. She will be greatly missed by everyone that was fortunate enough to have known her.”

Royals bench coach Paul Hoover has served as acting manager against the Cleveland Guardians.

Hoover has filled in for Quatraro a few times with the Royals. He served as acting manager from June 23-24 earlier this season. Last year, Hoover stepped into the role after Quatraro tested positive for COVID-19.

The Royals coaching staff was also shuffled in Quatraro’s absence. Third base coach Vance Wilson moved over to serve as bench coach. Infield coach Jose Alguacil served as the third-base coach.