Overview

• The Dodgers fell 11–1 at Petco Park after minor league call-up Matt Sauer surrendered nine runs over 111 pitches.
• Facing only four healthy starters and a worn-out bullpen, Roberts turned to outfielder Kiké Hernández to pitch the sixth inning.
• Hernández’s appearance marked the earliest use of a position player by the Dodgers in a regular-season game.
• MLB fans and commentators flooded social media with criticism, accusing the team of giving up and disrespecting the sport’s competitive norms.
• Though allowed under league rules for lopsided contests, the tactic intensified questions about the Dodgers’ strategy and clubhouse reputation.