Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged a stroke of luck after San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado's unfortunate misplay on Friday. A ball deflected off Machado's glove, loading the bases for the Dodgers in the third inning.
With runners on first and second and no outs, Miguel Rojas attempted a bunt. Machado's diving effort to field the ball resulted in it bouncing off his glove and into foul territory. "Manny's a Gold Glover over there," Roberts said. "We caught a break right there."
The Dodgers capitalized, scoring two runs in the third, ultimately contributing to their 3-2 victory in the series opener.
Padres manager Shildt acknowledged the unfortunate play: "Great effort. I mean, just right off the end of his glove... talk about effort, that was a great effort. And our guys gave it tonight."
Adding to Machado's woes, he went 0-for-4 at the plate with a strikeout.
Meanwhile, Manny Machado credits the Padres’ mid-season turnaround to new teammates. The Padres are now tied for the lead with the Dodgers heading into the second game of their three-game series. The Padres are 9-4 since the trade deadline and were on a tear prior to Friday.
Manny Machado said that the Padres were just trying to get back in the win column. Since the league's July 31 trade deadline, the Padres have lost just three of 12 games. "They’ve won us some games... Our lineup is a lot different now, and obviously the bullpen has been coming up and doing their job," Machado said.
Key Takeaways:
- Manny Machado's defensive miscue proved costly for the Padres.
- The Dodgers capitalized on the opportunity, securing a narrow victory.
- Machado struggled both defensively and offensively.
- The Padres and Dodgers are now tied for the NL West lead.
- Manny Machado credits the Padres’ mid-season turnaround to new teammates.
Looking Ahead
Dylan Cease is scheduled to pitch for the Padres on Saturday. The Padres need a strong offensive performance to regain their lead in the division. The Dodgers will be looking to continue their momentum.