For posterity’s sake, the time was 3:53 on Oct. 1, 2017.
That’s when Royals manager Ned Yost subbed out first baseman Eric Hosmer, third baseman Mike Moustakas, shortstop Alcides Escobar and center fielder Lorenzo Cain from Sunday’s game against the Diamondbacks at Kauffman Stadium.
It was in the top of the fifth inning, and the four walked off the field together and doffed their caps to the crowd. They also took a moment to look back at the field and take in the moment:
Our hearts are yours #RaisedRoyal pic.twitter.com/lUcJfIHBHG
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) October 1, 2017
Fans were, understandably, a mess:
Didn't expect to feel so emotional watching my boys walk off the field today, but I've got a heavy heart.