Los Angeles Dodgers veteran shortstop Miguel Rojas was aware of the criticism. Following Tuesday’s tough loss to the San Diego Padres that pushed the Dodgers closer to elimination, Rojas faced backlash from fans.
Rojas came under fire for his questionable defensive move of holding onto the ball and tagging second base on his own with Gavin Lux on base in the second inning. While he addressed his decision post-game, his Instagram comments reflected a different tone.
Rojas responded bluntly to a fan on Instagram, expressing his frustration with the criticism.
“You think you guys are the only ones who want to win this, every player and person in this clubhouse is giving their all to win,” Rojas wrote. “We are doing everything we can to win, and if that’s not enough for you, I understand you want a win at all costs. No one here is lost; we are playing to win, not to be the reason for a loss.”
He added, “Yes, it was a mistake on my part to try to get two outs instead of one by passing the ball, and I take full responsibility for that decision leading to the loss.”
Rojas had evidently reached his limit with the criticism from Dodger fans regarding his play that contributed to a six-run inning by the Padres. While he expressed his feelings on social media, he also addressed the play with reporters post-game.
“I made a bad decision trying to handle the ball myself at second base. I reached for the bag with my left leg, which was a poor choice. It was a mistake that not only affected the play but also my well-being,” Rojas explained.
“I opted to stay in the game because I knew how hard it is to come in and play defense midway through. I wanted to test my leg by taking that at-bat in the third inning. As I ran the bases, it didn’t feel right. Despite scoring runs, I wanted to give the team the best chance with everyone at full strength.”
“My decision hurt me and the team at that moment,” he concluded. “Now I have to face the consequences.”
Rojas had to leave Game 3 after aggravating his groin injury while rounding third base in the third inning.
Since rejoining the team in 2023, Rojas has been a crucial player for the Dodgers and arguably their top defensive infielder. However, his decision not to pass the ball to Lux may have been the difference between potentially leading 2-1 and facing elimination.
Rojas is not in the lineup for the must-win Game 4 in San Diego on Wednesday night. The game starts at 6:08 p.m. PT.
Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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