MILWAUKEE (AP) — Following a 99-mph pitch to the face from Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase, Jonathan India returned to the Kansas City Royals’ lineup on Monday against the Milwaukee Brewers. The impact hit India’s batting helmet on the left side of his face during the ninth inning of the Royals’ 6-2 defeat. Despite leaving the game and heading to the locker room, a CT scan revealed no lasting damage for the 28-year-old second baseman.
Royals manager Matt Quatraro stated that India was eager to play, emphasizing caution while monitoring any symptoms. India, known for his competitive spirit, expressed his determination to be on the field, setting a positive example for the team. Acquired from Cincinnati in an off-season trade for Brady Singer, India, the 2021 NL Rookie of the Year, boasted impressive stats last season, hitting .248 with a .357 on-base percentage, 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases over 151 games.
In less promising news for the Royals, outfielder/pinch-runner Dairon Blanco was placed on the injured list due to tendinopathy in his right Achilles tendon. With Blanco sidelined, utilityman Tyler Tolbert was called up from Triple-A Omaha to fill the roster spot, offering a versatile skill set to the team.
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