KANSAS CITY -- Home-plate umpire CB Bucknor left the Twins' 6-4 victory over the Royals Friday night in the eighth inning after being hit in the facemask by a foul tip from Minnesota third baseman Miguel Sano.
With the bases loaded and one out, Sano fouled back on a 92.9 mph fastball from reliever Joakim Soria that directly hit Bucknor in his mask. Bucknor went to his knees and was looked at by a Royals trainer. Bucknor, however, was not showing signs of a concussion after the game, but will be evaluated Saturday, according to the Royals' public-relations staff.
"He took it right off the facemask," Royals manager Ned Yost said. "That was tough right there."
Bucknor was able to walk off the field with assistance, and was replaced by second-base umpire and crew chief Fieldin Culbreth behind the plate.
"He looked dizzy," catcher Salvador Perez said. "I think he's had a concussion before, so it didn't look good."
After the six-minute delay, Sano ripped a first-pitch curveball from Soria for a game-tying two-run double that set the stage for Joe Mauer's go-ahead two-run double. Sano said he felt bad for Bucknor.
"It was bad because he got it in the head," Sano said. "I hope he's feeling better."