The Dodgers are back in the news and this time, not for a loss per se, but for the way they handled their game in the 11-1 loss to the Padres. Manager Dave Roberts’ decision to send position player Enrique Hernandez to the mound in the sixth inning sparked a wave of criticism on social media and in public opinion.
The controversy began when Matt Sauer, a rookie pitcher just up from the minors, was left on the mound despite a poor performance. Sauer threw 111 pitches, allowed 13 hits and nine runs. Even so, the Dodgers decided not to use their regular relievers. Instead, Hernandez was sent in to pitch.
This was the earliest appearance of a position player as a pitcher in MLB history. Usually, this type of maneuver is reserved for moments when the result is practically sealed, and the team seeks to save its pitchers in irrelevant games. But doing it in the sixth inning raised serious questions about respect for the spirit of the game.
Social media was quick to react. Fans, journalists and former players accused the Dodgers of “giving up the game” too early and “degrading the competitive integrity” of the sport.
Dave Roberts’ defense
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts defended his decision after the game, pointing out that the team is in a delicate situation with its rotation, as it only has four healthy starters. “It was an uncomfortable situation, but necessary,” he explained.
Beyond the coach’s explanation, the controversy was already installed in the public’s perception. Despite having a star-studded roster including Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers are criticized for building their success on external signings, rather than relying on homegrown talent. Although the intention may have been to preserve arms for closer games, the message that remained was different.
Criticism on social media
The reaction was not long in coming. On social media, MLB fans accused the Dodgers of “giving up” too soon and “ruining the competitive spirit” of baseball. Some messages were harsher, attacking the club’s history, but that is more subjective.
The truth is that the Dodgers acted in a way that was very poorly received and this cost them the repudiation of the baseball world. The next games will tell if they continue to do this or if it was simply an extreme measure that will not happen again.
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