Escobar diagnosed with cheek contusion

CLEVELAND -- The Royals got another scare from a hit-by-pitch Wednesday night when shortstop Alcides Escobar was nailed in the head by a 96-mph fastball from Cleveland right-hander Danny Salazar in the fifth inning of the Royals' 7-5 loss.

Escobar immediately went face down to the ground where he stayed for several minutes. He later walked to the Royals' clubhouse with some assistance from the Royals' training staff.

Escobar was diagnosed with a left cheek contusion, and both manager Ned Yost and Escobar believed there were no fractures. No X-rays were done -- the Royals' medical people tested Escobar's jaw strength and determined X-rays were not necessary.

The Royals will re-evaluate Escobar on Thursday.

Escobar, who spoke with reporters after having his postgame meal, said he was dizzy at first after the hit-by-pitch, but was feeling better after the game.

Escobar indicated he might even be able to play Thursday night against the Tigers.

"Right now, after all the tests, it's good," he said. "Little bit of a headache -- after 10 or 20 minutes it got better.

"Yeah, maybe we're waiting for tomorrow, then Ned and the training people, they make a decision if I'm feeling good, I'm ready to play."

Escobar planned on flying home with the team Wednesday night.

The hit-by-pitch was the Royals' 20th already this season, tying them with Texas for the league lead.