SAN DIEGO – Renowned baseball journalist Ken Rosenthal has offered his perspective on the escalating tensions between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers following a controversial incident involving Padres star Manny Machado and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. The focus of the dispute arose during Game 2 of the National League Division Series when Machado threw a baseball toward the Dodgers’ dugout, causing Roberts to later describe the act as “unsettling.”
Machado’s throw occurred after Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty hit Padres slugger Fernando Tatis Jr. with a pitch, leading to a heated exchange between Machado and Flaherty. Following his strikeout in the same inning, Machado launched a ball that struck the netting in front of Roberts, sparking speculation about his intent.
Ken Rosenthal, well-known for his insight on MLB controversies, addressed the incident, suggesting that while tensions are naturally high in playoff series, the implications of Machado’s throw carry significant weight. “This kind of behavior can easily escalate, especially in a series as intense as Padres-Dodgers,” Rosenthal remarked. “Both teams have a lot at stake, and any perceived slight can add fuel to the fire.”
Roberts, speaking to the media on Monday, expressed discomfort about the situation. “I didn’t notice it at the time, but after seeing the video, it was unsettling,” Roberts said. “I don’t know Manny’s intent, but the ball was directed at me, and it felt personal.”
Machado, however, downplayed the incident, stating that it was a routine throw intended for a bat boy. “I throw balls into both dugouts all the time,” Machado said. “I’ve already turned the page and moved on.”
According to Ken Rosenthal, Machado’s explanation might hold some truth, but the Dodgers, understandably, took exception to the timing and nature of the throw. “Machado is known for his competitiveness, and while he’s matured, incidents like this can be interpreted differently by opposing teams, especially given the history between these clubs,” Rosenthal noted.
Padres manager Mike Shildt, staunchly defending his player, rejected the idea that Machado aimed at Roberts intentionally. “There’s no way Manny threw that ball with any bad intent,” Shildt said. “Manny’s professionalism and leadership have been on display throughout this series.”
Rosenthal highlighted how these types of altercations can overshadow the on-field performance, noting, “As exciting as this series has been, it’s important for both teams to focus on the game itself. Situations like this can easily spiral out of control if not managed carefully.”
Major League Baseball reviewed the incident and decided not to discipline Machado. However, the debate lingers, with Dodgers players like Miguel Rojas voicing concerns about the potential danger of such actions. “What if that ball had gone over the net?” Rojas asked rhetorically.
Rosenthal concluded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus as the series progresses. “The playoffs are an emotional roller coaster, and both teams need to channel their energy into the game. It’s moments like these that test a team’s resolve.”
With the Padres leading the series 2-1, the stakes remain high. As Ken Rosenthal pointed out, the intensity of this rivalry has only just begun, and it will likely continue to shape the narrative as the NLDS unfolds.
