Guillen and McClure separated after exchanging harsh words in clubhouse before game

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. | Outfielder José Guillen initiated a near-brawl with pitching coach Bob McClure in the Royals' clubhouse before Saturday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field.

Witnesses said no blows were exchanged, but the two had to be separated after exchanging heated words. Guillen remained in the lineup as the designated hitter.

Guillen is thought to have been upset at what he considered excessive supervision by coaches in the clubhouse. The coaches' lockers in the visitors' clubhouse at Tropicana Filed are located alongside the players' lockers.

Witnesses said Guillen knocked over a chair near his locker and began talking in a loud voice. When McClure told Guillen to be quiet, Guillen responded by knocking over another chair and moving toward McClure.

Manager Trey Hillman was conducting his pre-game news conference in the dugout when the incident occurred. Hillman was later observed talking quietly with Guillen.

General manager Dayton Moore declined comment on the matter when reached by phone.

Saturday's incident is the third time in less than six weeks that Guillen allowed his emotions to rage in the clubhouse.

He lashed out at teammates, calling them “babies” after a May 28 loss to the Twins. He also reacted angrily to questions regarding boos by fans at his failure to run hard on an infield grounder in a June 28 victory over the Rockies.

Guillen subsequently apologized for using abusive language in his comments on the fans.

To reach Bob Dutton, Royals reporter for The Star, call 816-234-4352 or send e-mail to bdutton@kcstar.com.