During Game 2 of the National League Division Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, Manny Machado threw a baseball toward the Dodgers dugout, and the ball came close to hitting Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
On Monday, Roberts called the throw from Machado, who played for the Roberts and the Dodgers in 2018, “unsettling.”
Read more: Dodgers Sent Video to MLB Showing Manny Machado Throwing Baseball at Dave Roberts
“I didn’t notice it at the time. I really didn’t,” Roberts said to reporters. “I didn’t notice it. I did see the video. And it was unsettling. Obviously I have a relationship with Manny [Machado] from years past. There was intent behind it. It didn’t almost hit me because there was a net.
Roberts added: “And that was very bothersome. If it was intended at me, I would be — it’s pretty disrespectful. So I don’t know his intent. I don’t want to speak for him. But I did see the video. And the ball was directed at me with something behind it. But I don’t know what led to that. I didn’t see it in real time but I did see the video.”
The video of the throw toward Roberts is currently being reviewed by MLB, but Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reported that it is unlikely either team faces discipline for what occurred during Game 2.
Padres manager Mike Shildt has since spoken on Machado’s throw.
“No, I don’t think there was any intent at all in that,” Shildt said on Tuesday.
Shildt appeared to also take a shot at Roberts for his comments toward Machado.
“I’m not, nor will I ever, disparage another player on another team, especially anybody I’ve managed in the past. Nor will I do it to a collective team. That’s not how I want to operate,” Shildt said.
More news: Manny Machado Responds to Dave Roberts’ Claims That Padres Star Threw Ball at Dodgers Manager
Here’s the full quote from Shildt:
“Well, I come from maybe just a different philosophy of dealing with this. I couldn’t help but have people share them with me so I’m aware of them.
“Listen, I got into this game to help players get the most out of their God-given ability and to compete on the field and respect the opponent. I’m not nor will I ever disparage another player on another team, especially anybody I’ve managed in the past nor will I do it to a collective team. That’s not how I want to operate.
“I have a lot of respect for their club, the players on their club.
“As far as Manny goes, it’s unfortunate people can’t move on from things from the past. I thought Manny’s exhibition of professionalism and leadership were on display the other night in a very tough environment.
“He nor I nor anyone would profess to be perfect, but Manny has made some strides that are very impressive both on and off the field. It’s been a privilege to witness that.
“It’s representative of him being a Roberto Clemente Award winner and I expect him to win it. I get the privilege of seeing him, along with our players, behind the scenes do some really special things for young people, our community.
“But people have their right, clearly, to share what they want and how they want to share it.
“As far as the comments about the team, again, “privilege” keeps coming up in my head. It’s beyond a privilege. I’ve been doing this for 30-plus years. We all have our transgressions we have. None of us are perfect.
“But I can speak to the heart of caring about people and players. And been with teams for a long time that represent themselves with class and dignity. And I don’t have to defend this team. This team does not need my defense nor do our players need to defend themselves.
“Again, very tough environment the other evening. I thought they handled themselves exceptionally well. Yeah, they had the right to defend themselves, but they also were able to stay focused and participate. And, oh, by the way, we play a baseball game.
“Again, our club doesn’t need to be defended. I love the joy that our club brings. I love the enthusiasm they bring I love the freedom they play with. And, again, I love their heart for our community and our organization. That’s as far as I’ll go.”
The Padres and Dodgers will face off again on Tuesday, as the two rivals try to take Game 3 of the NLDS at Petco Park.
Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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