The Los Angeles Dodgers encountered more than just the Chicago Cubs as adversaries during a rain-drenched game at Wrigley Field this Sunday, where the elements exposed an already concerning area for the team: infield defense. The game, which ended in an 8-1 loss for the Dodgers, was marred by several errors and a field condition that went from bad to unplayable, leading to a nearly three-hour delay.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed the need to overlook the day’s challenges, attributing the defensive lapses to the harsh playing conditions which both teams faced. However, the first inning saw an error by Freddie Freeman contribute to a three-run disadvantage early in the game, a mistake Roberts deemed tough given the conditions.
Mookie Betts, attempting shortstop duties for the first time professionally, allowed another run due to a missed ground ball, a mistake Roberts attributed to Betts’ inexperience with the wet infield. The conditions worsened, culminating in a frustrated exchange between veteran infielder Miguel Rojas and the umpires over the decision to continue the game amidst clearly deteriorating field conditions.
Despite the weather’s impact, the Dodgers’ infield defense has been a point of concern early this season, with errors contributing to negative defensive metrics. While Roberts remains optimistic about improvement, Sunday’s game at Wrigley Field underscored the challenges the Dodgers face in solidifying their defense as they navigate the rest of the season.
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