Manny Machado Facing Backlash for Questionable Move During Dodgers-Padres Game 3

The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers have had a controversial series through three games, and with Game 4 set for Wednesday night, Padres star Manny Machado faced backlash for a questionable decision on the base paths during Game 3. The Padres won that game, taking a 2-1 series lead.

In a tense moment with the score at 1-0, a ground ball was hit to Freddie Freeman at first base while Machado was on first. As Freeman attempted to throw to second in hopes of turning a double play, Machado took an unusual route on the base path, running near and onto the inner grass to obstruct Freeman's line of sight.

This maneuver proved effective, allowing Machado to reach third while the runner safely advanced to first. It marked the beginning of a six-run rally for the Padres, and former MLB icon Chipper Jones had some mixed emotions about the play.

"Not that I’m torn up about it, but isn’t this illegal??? This was the beginning of a 6 run rally that literally decided a playoff game. I can understand the 2nd base ump not making a call bcuz of angle, but that fella in all black standing next to 1st base, had a perfect view!"

This isn’t the first run-in Machado has had in this series with his former team. Earlier, he was seen throwing a baseball toward the Dodgers' dugout, prompting Los Angeles to file a report with MLB claiming it was intentional.

Despite the controversy, the Padres maintain a 2-1 lead in the series. The Dodgers find themselves on their last leg, and if they can't secure victories in the next two games, manager Dave Roberts and his team will be heading home early once again, despite having one of the most talented rosters in the league.

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