Puig Exits Game After Collision, Dodger Fans Pray

If this video isn’t reason enough for the regulars to not be playing in these meaningless games three days before opening day, then I don’t know what is.

It’s the first game of the annual freeway series between the Dodgers and the Angels, with game one being played at Anaheim in Angel’s Stadium. Of course these games are still exhibition, and utterly meaningless. However with opening day on Monday, the regulars need to get a few at-bats in to stay sharp. Which is always understandable.

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Then this happens, and you wonder why the minor leaguers aren’t on the field at the time. In the bottom of the fifth inning with the Angels leading 2-1, Mike Trout hit a pop fly to shallow right field. Howie Kendrick, and Yasiel Puig both sprinted towards the ball.

Neither of them were looking at each other. Naturally they both had their eyes fixated on the Baseball. Unfortunately nobody called anyone off, and Kendrick collided with Puig who had stopped to let Kendrick catch the ball. The ensuing collision made every Dodger fan’s heart momentarily stop.

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Call to the Pen

Kendrick ended up elbowing Puig in the jaw, and he went down in pain. He was lying on the ground for a couple of minutes, while Stan Conte and manager Don Mattingly examined him. Then he was able to walk off the field under his own power. Carl Crawford Chris Heisey replaced him in right field.

I am assuming taking him out of the game was precautionary, but we won’t know until later tonight. He could have a concussion. (Update, according to Vin, he is ok, but a bit sore) Hopefully he’ll be alright by Monday, but for god’s sake, let the regulars rest this weekend.

Oh in case you were wondering, the ball fell for a hit, and Trout got a triple. Very annoying.