Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar exited Friday's game against the Athletics with a left knee sprain following a controversial takeout slide by A's third baseman Brett Lawrie. The Royals announced the injury during the game.
Lawrie slid into Escobar's left leg, spikes high, while trying to reach second base ahead of a throw by Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas. Moustakas had fielded a ground ball by Josh Reddick. Lawrie's raised right leg clipped Escobar.
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Tensions were high after the incident, the Kansas City Star reports. Lawrie and Moustakas appeared to be jawing at each other, which resulted in the dugouts and bullpens emptying. No punches were thrown and no one was ejected.
Lawrie told reporters he was not trying to hurt Escobar.
Lawrie on whether cleats were up: “No, no no. no doubt. I would never try to cleat anybody. ... The intention was not there for that ever.”
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) April 18, 2015Oakland manager Bob Melvin also stuck up for his player.
Melvin on Lawrie slide: "The slide? I mean he's standing right there on the base trying to turn two."
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) April 18, 2015The Royals won 6-4 and improved to 8-2 on the season.
Sporting News Media's Tom Gatto contributed to this report.