The Los Angeles Dodgers lost a lead late but rallied in the ninth inning for a 7-6 win against the San Diego Padres. The matchup at Peoria Sports Complex was the first between the clubs since their meeting in the 2022 National League Division Series.
While both lineups featured everyday starters, the day took an unfortunate turn for the Dodgers beyond the result as Gavin Lux was removed due to an apparent right knee injury. Lux appeared to be in a considerable amount of pain and needed to be carted off the field.
Lux went 2-for-3 in what was his second start of the spring.
Mookie Betts and Jason Heyward were in the Dodgers lineup for the first time this year, but both went hitless. Betts did draw a walk that led to scoring on Will Smith’s game-tying base hit in the third inning.
Non-roster invitee Luke Williams provided the Dodgers with a lead on a solo home run in the fourth inning, and Devin Mann hit an RBI single in the sixth to put them up 3-1.
The Padres benefitted from an RBI sun double and wild pitch to tie the game in the bottom of the seventh, and Brett Sullivan’s two-out RBI single gave them a lead in the eighth inning.
The Dodgers loaded the bases with nobody out in the ninth and tied the game when James Outman grounded into a double play. Ryan Ward’s RBI single put L.A. ahead and Jorbit Vivas provided insurance with a two-run double.
Dodgers pitching prospects
Ryan Pepiot had an encouraging 2023 debut as he worked around an error and base hit to complete a scoreless first inning. Pepiot struck out Manny Machado on three pitches and overall had better command than what was often seen last season.
Pepiot completed additional throwing in the bullpen after his one inning of work.
Fellow pitching prospect Landon Knack also took the mound, retiring the side in order in the fourth inning.
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