The National League Division Series between the Dodgers and the Padres not only showcased intense competition on the field but also sparked some heated moments off of it. After Dodgers manager Dave Roberts accused Padres star Manny Machado of throwing a ball in his direction, Padres manager Mike Shildt defended his player, stating, “I don’t believe he did that on purpose.”

During Game 2 of the series, Machado exchanged words with Dodgers starter Jack Flaherty, who later claimed that Machado threw a ball toward the Dodgers’ dugout. Machado acknowledged this incident.

Roberts further commented that after reviewing the footage, he felt Machado aimed the throw at him. “If he really did target me, that’s a very disrespectful act,” he remarked.

In response to Roberts’s remarks, Shildt emphasized, “My job is to lead our team on the field and respect our opponents. I wouldn’t belittle other players or teams, especially players I’ve previously coached. It’s just my style to show nothing but respect for other teams and their players.” Notably, Machado briefly played for the Dodgers in 2018.

When asked whether Machado threw the ball intentionally at Roberts, Shildt dismissed the idea, stating, “The chances of that are zero. Unfortunately, some people can’t move on from past events. I believe Machado displayed professionalism and leadership on that challenging night.”

Roberts declined to comment on Shildt’s statements. According to ESPN, the MLB has received the footage of Machado’s throw, which indeed landed just in front of where Roberts typically sits, but no disciplinary action is anticipated at this time.