San Diego Padres on Verge of NLDS Upset Against Los Angeles Dodgers

In the latest chapter of the fierce rivalry between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, the Padres have taken a significant step towards pulling off an upset in the National League Division Series (NLDS). With a narrow 6-5 victory in Game 3, San Diego now leads the series 2-1.

The Padres’ Game 3 win lacked the dramatic flair of their previous 10-2 triumph in Game 2, which was marred by fans throwing items at Padres players. However, the current series has revived what is considered Major League Baseball’s most entertaining rivalry.

This competitive edge has been brewing since 2020, when San Diego began challenging Los Angeles’ dominance in the National League West. Notably, an altercation sparked in a September 2020 game when former Padres outfielder Trent Grisham hit a home run off Dodgers’ ace Clayton Kershaw. Grisham’s celebratory actions, which included a stare-down and comments toward the Dodgers’ dugout, drew public rebuke from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who viewed the gestures as disrespectful towards Kershaw.

The 2020 NLDS saw further rivalry highlights when Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger made a dramatic catch to prevent a Padres’ comeback, with tensions high after exuberant celebrations on both sides. While Los Angeles claimed victory in that playoff series, the contentious encounters have persisted.

The two teams continued their rivalry in 2021, with significant offseason acquisitions fueling on-field fireworks during early season matchups. Controversial moments included a benches-clearing incident after Dodgers pitcher Dennis Santana hit Padres infielder Jorge Mateo with a pitch.

Further animosity was displayed when Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. flaunted his home runs during games against the Dodgers, drawing attention for his celebratory antics aimed at players like Trevor Bauer. Despite the rivalry’s intensity, both Bauer and Tatis commented positively on allowing expression in the game.

The drama has spilled beyond the field, with tension reaching a peak in 2022 when Padres fans mocked Kershaw with a crying meme on the Petco Park scoreboards after a difficult outing. Kershaw took the incident in stride, emphasizing the importance of performing better.

As the 2024 clash unfolded, the Padres seemed poised to upset the Dodgers once more. Game 4 looms as a chance for the Padres to finalize the series, continuing their recent history of postseason contention against their divisional foes.

The ongoing rivalry, characterized by heated exchanges and competitive spirit, promises to add another chapter, regardless of the series outcome. Both teams remain focused on advancing further in the postseason, with the Padres seeking to eliminate their long-standing rivals.