Over the years, the Los Angeles Dodgers have had their fair share of beloved players who have become fan favorites. However, Manny Machado, the talented infielder who joined the team in 2018, quickly became a polarizing figure among Dodgers fans. Let’s take a closer look at why some Dodgers fans harbor animosity towards Machado.
1. The Trade and High Expectations
Manny Machado was acquired by the Dodgers in a mid-season trade with the Baltimore Orioles. This trade immediately raised expectations among Dodgers fans, as Machado was known for his exceptional skills, particularly as a power-hitting shortstop. However, despite his talent, Machado’s performance during the remainder of the season did not live up to the high expectations that were set for him, resulting in disappointment among fans.
2. Lack of Hustle
One of the major criticisms directed towards Manny Machado is his perceived lack of hustle on the field. There have been multiple instances where he did not run out ground balls or make full efforts to beat out throws to first base. Dodger fans, known for their passion and commitment to the team, deeply value players who give their all on the field, and Machado’s lack of hustle has been a sore point for many.
Moreover, during the 2018 playoffs, Machado infamously kicked Milwaukee Brewers’ first baseman Jesús Aguilar while running to first base, which many fans saw as a dirty play. This incident further tarnished Machado’s reputation among Dodgers fans, leading to a loss of trust and respect.
3. The World Series Loss
In 2018, the Los Angeles Dodgers made it to the World Series with Manny Machado on their roster. However, they ultimately lost to the Boston Red Sox in five games. Machado’s performance during the World Series was lackluster, with a batting average below .200 and questionable defensive plays. This further fueled the frustration of Dodgers fans, who had hoped for a championship victory.
4. Style of Play
Manny Machado has a reputation for being a flashy player on the field, often engaging in showmanship and occasional altercations with opponents. Some Dodgers fans argue that this flashy style of play does not align with the team’s traditional values and the blue-collar work ethic cherished by the fanbase. They believe that a player should prioritize teamwork and respect for the game rather than personal highlight-reel moments.
Frequently Asked Questions For Why Do Dodger Fans Hate Manny Machado: The Inside Story
Why Do Dodger Fans Hate Manny Machado?
Dodger fans dislike Manny Machado due to his lack of hustle and effort on the field. Additionally, his controversial actions, such as an altercation with a Brewers player during the playoffs, have not endeared him to the fans.
What Were The Controversies Involving Manny Machado?
Manny Machado became known for his questionable actions during the playoffs, including intentionally kicking an opposing player and throwing his bat during a game. These incidents drew negative attention from fans and the media.
Did Manny Machado Disrespect The Dodgers Organization?
Some fans believe that Manny Machado disrespected the Dodgers organization by not fully committing himself to the team during his time in Los Angeles. His perceived lack of effort and passion on the field added fuel to the dislike towards him.
How Did Manny Machado’s Performance Affect The Fans?
Manny Machado’s inconsistent performance and lackluster attitude frustrated Dodgers fans. They expected him to excel as a high-profile acquisition, but his subpar play and perceived lack of effort disappointed the fans.
Conclusion
While it’s important to note that not all Dodgers fans dislike Manny Machado, it’s evident that a significant portion of the fanbase harbors negative feelings towards him. His disappointing performance after the trade, perceived lack of hustle, involvement in controversial plays, and flashy style of play have all contributed to the animosity. However, it’s worth noting that baseball fans are known for being passionate and opinionated, and emotions can sometimes cloud judgment. Ultimately, only time will tell if Manny Machado’s time with the Dodgers will be remembered for the negative or positive impact he had on the team.