ST. PETERSBURG — Kansas City Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel suffered facial lacerations after fouling a ball off his face in Saturday’s 7-4 win over the Rays at Tropicana Field. The pitch from Rays reliever Garrett Cleavinger struck Isbel on the bridge of his nose, then hit his forehead, knocking off his helmet. Medical staff cleaned Isbel’s face on the field before escorting him back to the dugout.
According to Royals manager Matt Quatraro, Isbel indicated he could see out of both eyes before leaving the field with minimal conversation.
Teammates, including second baseman Adam Frazier, expressed relief that Isbel seemed to be doing OK and hoped he would return soon. If Isbel needs more time to heal, Kansas City might rely on Garrett Hampson, Dairon Blaco, or current Triple-A outfielder Drew Waters in center field.