Roberts: Machado's Intentional Throw in NLDS Game 2 Unacceptable
The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres have been locked in a heated rivalry for years, but things reached a new level of intensity during the 2023 NLDS. In Game 2, Padres star Manny Machado made a play that left many scratching their heads, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was not shy about expressing his displeasure.
Machado's "Intentional" Throw
In the bottom of the 8th inning, Machado was playing shortstop with runners on first and second. Dodgers catcher Will Smith hit a soft grounder to Machado, who instead of attempting to throw out the runner at first, threw the ball directly at the runner at second base, Miguel Vargas. Vargas had to dive out of the way to avoid getting hit, and the play sparked outrage from Dodgers fans and personnel.
Roberts Speaks Out
Following the game, Roberts was asked about the play and didn't mince words. "It's a dangerous play, a reckless play, and I think it's unacceptable," he said. "I don't know what Manny's intention was, but that's not baseball. That's putting a player in harm's way." He went on to say that the throw was "not something you expect from a seasoned veteran."
The "Unwritten Rules" Debate
The incident ignited a debate on social media about "unwritten rules" in baseball. Some argued that Machado was simply trying to break up a potential double play, a common strategy. Others, including Roberts, saw it as a blatant attempt to injure a player.
What's Next?
Machado has apologized for the play, saying he "never intended to hit" Vargas. However, the damage is done, and the incident has further fueled the rivalry between the two teams. It will be interesting to see if MLB takes any disciplinary action against Machado, or if the play will simply become another chapter in the heated rivalry.
The NLDS is already a tense, competitive series. Machado's "intentional" throw, regardless of his intent, certainly added a new layer of drama to the competition. One thing is for sure - this play is going to be talked about for a long time, and it might just be the spark that ignites something even more dramatic in the remaining games of the series.
