Royals’ Jonathan India doused by ‘Salvy Splash.’ He had no clue it was coming
Kansas City Royals infielder Jonathan India couldn’t tell whether he smelled like coffee after Saturday’s win against the Cleveland Guardians.
He couldn’t really comprehend what happened. One minute, he was doing a postgame interview with FanDuel Sports Network Kansas City reporter Joel Goldberg.
And the next, he was doused with a diluted concoction — affectionately known as the “Salvy Splash” — reserved for the Royals player of the game.
“I was not expecting that,” India said. “I didn’t know that we did that. It’s usually on walk-offs and stuff, but it was freezing. I don’t know what was in it.”
Royals captain Salvador Perez popularized the postgame celebration. The Royals have expanded it over the years. On Saturday, India was doused by teammates Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez near the dugout.
“You’ve got to ask MJ about that, he mixes up all that stuff,” Witt said with a smile.
India took center stage against the Guardians. He made his first start in left field and didn’t look out of place during the game.
He made a few nice plays and added a sliding catch to his highlight reel. After the game, he noted there was a lot of running involved.
However, the win was worth the few extra miles on his odometer.
“You know, it’s still new,” India said. “It’s going to take a little bit, but I’m getting comfortable.”
The Royals defeated the Guardians 4-3 on Saturday. India finished 2-for-3 and reached base three times. Royals manager Matt Quatraro praised India for his ability to adjust to Kauffman Stadium in quick order.
“He played the best game he could’ve played out there,” Quatraro said. “You know, there was a deep fly ball and a shallow fly ball. He got to the double, made a nice throw to third and threw to the right base. He played a good game out there.”
India will play multiple positions with the Royals.
He started at third base on opening day and is expected to play second base as well. The Royals want his bat in the lineup every night and India’s defensive versatility will be the key.
“I thought he looked really good in left,” Royals starter Seth Lugo said. “You know, that first double, the wind really took off on that one. But, you know, that is a tough play. I think without the wind, he gets there. But a lot of those plays he was making, he looked like a natural left fielder.”
This story was originally published March 29, 2025 at 8:42 PM.
