In a recent interview, Padres manager Mike Shildt came to the defense of his player Manny Machado amid controversy during the National League Division Series against the Dodgers. The rivalry on the field intensified not only through the gameplay but also through some heated exchanges. After Dodgers manager Dave Roberts accused Machado of throwing a ball in his direction, Shildt stated, “I don’t believe he did that intentionally.”
During Game 2 of the series, Machado had a verbal altercation with Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty. Following the game, Flaherty claimed that Machado threw a ball toward the Dodgers’ dugout, a claim Machado later acknowledged.
Roberts further commented after reviewing video footage, asserting that Machado indeed aimed the ball toward him. He expressed, “If he really was targeting me, I think his actions were very disrespectful.”
Shildt responded to Roberts’ remarks by emphasizing the importance of respect in the game. “My job is to lead our team and to respect our opponents. I won’t belittle other players or teams, especially players I’ve coached myself. I hold nothing but respect for other teams and their players,” he remarked, noting that Machado briefly played with the Dodgers in 2018.
When asked whether Machado had thrown the ball at Roberts intentionally, Shildt dismissed the idea completely, saying, “Unfortunately, some people can’t move past things that have happened. I believe Machado showed professionalism and leadership that night despite the difficulties.”
Roberts declined to comment further on Shildt’s statement, but according to ESPN reports, the MLB has reviewed the footage of Machado’s throw. The ball did indeed land in front of Roberts’ usual spot, but no disciplinary actions are currently being considered.
