Robert Suarez, the Padres' closer, had his initial three-game suspension for hitting Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers reduced to two games after an appeal. The incident occurred amid a heated series between the teams, sparked by Dodgers rookie Jack Little hitting Fernando Tatis Jr. earlier in the game, leading to tensions and a bench-clearing brawl. Both managers were ejected, and Suarez’s actions drew a direct response from MLB, labeling his pitch intentional. Suarez expressed regret over the incident, asserting he never aimed to harm anyone.

Despite the controversy, Suarez’s suspension will begin after the Padres' series against the Nationals, allowing him to return for their clash with the Cincinnati Reds. The Padres are currently holding a 43-36 season record, with aspirations of maintaining momentum even amidst the fallout from this incident.