Overview
A heated Dodgers-Padres game ended in a benches-clearing brawl after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit by a pitch, prompting retaliation from the Padres and leading to both managers being ejected. The Padres ultimately won 5-3, but the game raised tensions and concerns about player safety.
Game Timeline and Key Events
- Dodgers rookie Jack Little made his MLB debut in the eighth inning, allowing four hits, two earned runs, a walk, and hitting Tatis Jr.
- The high-and-inside pitch hit Tatis on the wrist, leading to immediate confrontation between both managers and a benches-clearing brawl.
- Both Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Padres manager Mike Shildt were ejected from the game for their roles in the altercation.
- Fernando Tatis Jr. exited the game for a pinch runner; X-rays were negative but further tests (CT scan and MRI) were scheduled.
- Padres closer Robert Suarez retaliated in the ninth by hitting Shohei Ohtani, resulting in his ejection.
- The HBP put the tying run at the plate for the Dodgers, but replacement hitters failed to deliver, and the game ended 5-3 in favor of the Padres.
Postgame Reactions and Fallout
- Padres manager Shildt criticized the frequency of Tatis being hit, noting six HBPs against the Dodgers in 67 games.
- Roberts insisted the Tatis HBP was unintentional but objected to Shildt’s confrontational approach.
- Manny Machado of the Padres warned of further escalation if Tatis’ injury proved serious.
- The Padres’ win ended a losing streak and salvaged one game in the series.
- Total HBP count in the series: two each for Ohtani, Tatis, and Dodgers’ Andy Pages, plus one each for Jose Iglesias and Bryce Johnson.
Other Notable Context
- The Dodgers remain first in the NL West, 3.5 games ahead of the Giants, five ahead of the Padres.
- Additional noteworthy events: Dodgers dealt with Homeland Security agents at their stadium earlier in the day, and pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto lost a potential immaculate inning due to a blown call.
Decisions
- Both managers ejected: Ejection of Dave Roberts (Dodgers) and Mike Shildt (Padres) following on-field altercation.
Action Items
- Friday – Medical staff: Conduct CT scan and MRI on Fernando Tatis Jr.’s wrist to determine extent of injury.