Billy Butler 'embarrassed' by standing ovation at All-Star Game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Royals designated hitter Billy Butler made his All-Star debut Tuesday night in front of an adoring crowd at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City.

The ovations were numerous for Butler, both before and during the game.

The loudest came prior to the game, when the cheers from the crowd caused a brief pause in the pre-game introductions.

“I got a little embarrassed,” Butler said after the game, an 8-0 National League victory. “With all those great ballplayers on the field, and you get an ovation like that, it was great.”

Royals manager Ned Yost, who served on the American League staff for the game, said the rousing ovations were a testament to the Kansas City fans.

“To see Billy’s ovation was exciting,” Yost said. “It just shows how special our fans are. How much passion they have for the Kansas City Royals.”

Despite going 0 for 2 at the plate, Butler said his first All-Star experience was a memorable one.

“I had a blast out there playing with the guys,” he said, even though it didn’t turn out the way he wanted.

Butler was the Royals’ sole All-Star representative among players, marking the sixth consecutive year only one Kansas City player made the American League roster.

But Yost thinks that can change soon.

“I think we have five guys that can be perennial All-Stars in the near future, and I’m excited for that to happen.”