Kansas City Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar will not play in Friday's series opener against Cleveland after injuring his right shoulder Thursday. Escobar was injured while diving for a bloop single in the seventh inning of Kansas City's loss to Detroit. Utility infielder Tony Abreu entered the game to replace Escobar. Manager Ned Yost told reporters after the game that Escobar would not play Friday, though Alcides was not so sure:

"When I went down, I hit the front part of my shoulder," Escobar said. "I think I'll play tomorrow. I want to play."

Alcides Escobar has shown marked improvement this year, his second as the starting shortstop in Kansas City. He is batting .291 with four home runs, 50 RBI, and 32 stolen bases in 37 attempts, and has increased his on-base percentage and slugging percentage by more than 40 points.

The Royals start their pentultimate series of the season Friday at Cleveland. First pitch is scheduled for 5:05 CT.