Minneapolis ? A surgically removed growth behind Royals manager Buddy Bell’s left tonsil was cancerous, his doctor said Thursday.

The biopsy revealed that tissue surrounding the growth, however, was free of cancer cells. The team made the announcement during Kansas City’s game at Minnesota.

Bell was examined by Dr. Michael Hinni, at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., as a follow-up to the surgery he had last Friday. Hinni said the procedure was successful.

Bell, who is resting at his home in Chandler, Ariz., and won’t manage again this season, will meet with doctors soon to determine any possible further treatment.

Bench coach Billy Doran has replaced Bell on an interim basis.