MLB: NLDS-Los Angeles Dodgers at San Diego Padres - Source: ImagnAlex Rodriguez breaks down Machado’s controversial base running in Padres’ NLDS Game 3 win over Dodgers (Image Source: IMAGN)

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ division series against the San Diego Padres has lived up to expectations with several dramatic moments in the three games so far.

Tuesday’s Game 3 at Petco Park witnessed another controversial moment when Padres captain Manny Machado seemingly changed his running path to block Freddie Freeman’s throw from first base in the second inning.

Former World Series winner and New York Yankees legend Alex Rodriguez discussed the play from Machado with former teammate Derek Jeter and Red Sox icon David Ortiz.

Talking about the Padres star’s baserunning, A-Rod said Machado took advantage of a “blindspot”:

“The umpires did a tremendous job but there was a blindspot there because if you the second base umpire you are focusing on the bag and you have a lot of other responsibilities,” Rodriguez said. “So it’s a little bit of a blindspot and Manny [Machado] took advantage of it.”

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Manny Machado’s play became a talking point because the Padres scored six runs in the inning to overturn a 1-0 deficit. Although the Dodgers fired back with a five-run surge in the third inning, the hosts held on to claim a 6-5 win to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

Freddie Freeman not holding any grudges over Manny Machado’s base running

Following the game, Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman reflected on Manny Machado deviating from the basepath. The former MVP said Machado did what they are taught as baserunners (via LATimes.com):

“I’ve looked at it many times, replayed it in my head many times, we are taught that as baserunners,” Freeman said. “I would have done the same thing as a base runner. At first I thought I made a perfect throw and just clicked his left shoulder. That’s just what we are taught as baserunners, to get in the line and he hit it.”

The Dodgers go up against the Padres in a do-or-die Game 4 on Wednesday and Petco Park will likely witness another action-packed showdown between the two famed rivals.