The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants met Wednesday for the 10th time this season. The Giants entered play riding a season-best five-game winning streak, while the Dodgers were on a three-game losing streak, which matched their longest in 2017.
What’s more, Los Angeles faced the prospect of being swept by their longtime National League West rival. Tensions boiled over early on an afternoon that offered clear skies and temperatures in the low-to-mid 60s.
Following a two-out, two-run double in the first inning, Yasmani Grandal exchanged words with Johnny Cueto. Then in the third inning, Cueto threw a pitch near Grandal’s chin.
The ball evaded Buster Posey’s glove and allowed Chase Utley to score on the wild pitch. Grandal’s at-bat ended in a flyout, and it was followed by more words with Cueto.
Following the Giants’ loss, Cueto accused the Dodgers of stealing signs. Grandal and the team collectively denied the claim. Though, manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that gamesmanship is omnipresent throughout the sport.
The Dodgers and Giants are certainly no stranger to dustups. Though, in recent seasons they’ve often centered around Madison Bugmarner and Yasiel Puig throwing glances and shouting at one another.
