What we know about Jonathan India’s injury against Cleveland Guardians
Kansas City Royals infielder Jonathan India exited Saturday’s game against the Cleveland Guardians with right quad tightness.
In the sixth inning, India re-aggravated the injury after reaching base on a one-out walk. He advanced to third base after first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino hit a single down the right-field line.
India rounded the bases and reached third safely. He remained in the game for the remainder of the Royals at-bats but was replaced in the bottom half of the inning.
“It happened a couple of days ago, just tightness in the quad,” India said postgame. “We had been taking care of it and it felt fine all game. It just kind of tightened up on me that first to third. And I knew if I didn’t do something right there, I get up there again and hit a double or something, it probably would’ve went.
“This is probably the first time in my career I was smart enough to, you know, not blow something out on my body. So, I’ve got to take the positive out of that. I matured in a way to make sure I’m healthy for the rest of the year rather than missing two months with a pulled quad.”
Royals outfielder Drew Waters replaced India in the game. He lined up in right field as MJ Melendez shifted to left.
India has adjusted well since joining the Royals. He has played third base and left field and been a consistent contributor atop the batting order. In 15 games, India is hitting .208 (11-for-53) with three runs scored and five RBIs.
The Royals will re-evaluate India ahead of Sunday’s game. He said he has never dealt with a quad injury but is hopeful to be available in the series finale.
“I’m pretty optimistic to be healthy,” India said. “I don’t know if they are going to let me play. But (I hope) at least to be available to come off the bench if they need me. But it feels OK. I have pulled something before in my body and I know it’s not there yet.”
Earlier this season, India was hit in the helmet against the Guardians. He was drilled by an errant fastball from Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase.
India escaped the scary moment unscathed. He didn’t miss game action and remained a fixture in the Royals lineup.
“He is kind of learning two positions at the same time as well as trying to anchor a lineup at the top,” Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino said. “I think it shows a lot, his toughness and willingness to do things for the team. I really think it sets the tone and that’s why he is a great leadoff hitter for us. So I’m thinking of him and hope he is all right.”
KC acquired India from the Cincinnati Reds this offseason. He joined the organization alongside outfield prospect Joey Wiemer in exchange for right-handed starter Brady Singer.
This story was originally published April 12, 2025 at 7:31 PM.
