He played for the Toronto Blue Jays (1997–2003) and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (2004–2007, 2009).
In March 2008, Escobar revealed a tear in his right shoulder that required season-ending surgery.
After missing all of the 2008 season, Escobar spent the first few months of 2009 in the minors.
He returned to the majors on June 6, 2009, but made only one start before his career ended due to another shoulder injury.
Kansas City Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar is his first cousin.