Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing and Rockies outfielder Cole Carrigg exchanged words after a close play at home plate during an extra innings game on Monday night at Dodger Stadium.
The moment came in the top of the 10th inning. Carrigg scored what became the go ahead run for the Rockies on a bases loaded double. Rushing applied a tag as Carrigg crossed the plate. The play was close, and Rushing added an extra tag after Carrigg was ruled safe. Carrigg said something as he walked away from the plate. Rushing turned and responded.
Players from both benches and bullpens began to move onto the field. Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy and reliever Edgardo Henriquez stepped between the two players. No punches were thrown, and the situation ended without further issues.
After the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts described the exchange as a misunderstanding. He said Carrigg spoke aloud without directing his comments at Rushing. Rushing thought the words were aimed at him. Roberts noted that the teams cleared the air afterward.
Rushing later explained his side of the moment. He said the exchange came from the competitive nature of the game. He noted that he was reacting to the baseball and did not mean any harm with the tag or his response.
Rushing had a strong game overall. He finished 3 for 5 at the plate and delivered a walk off single in the bottom of the 11th inning. That hit gave the Dodgers an 8-7 victory. He also made a key defensive play at the plate earlier in the inning when Carrigg scored.
Carrigg had a strong night at the plate as well. He hit a two-run double in the ninth inning that helped tie the game and send it to extra innings.
The incident added tension to a close contest between National League West rivals. Both teams have a history in the division, and moments like this can occur in tight games. The benches clearing showed support for teammates on both sides, but the situation stayed under control. The Dodgers and Rockies are scheduled to continue their series in the coming days.