Dodgers Surrender Early Amid Injuries in 11-1 Loss to Padres

The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a crushing 11-1 loss to the San Diego Padres, highlighted by an unprecedented decision to have utility player Kiké Hernández pitch in the sixth inning, reflecting the team's dire pitching situation. With seven pitchers on the injured list, the Dodgers were forced to rely on minor-league call-up Matt Sauer, who allowed nine runs over 4.2 innings, before Hernández took over and limited further damage. Padres ace Dylan Cease dominated, shutting down the Dodgers' offense with seven scoreless innings and 11 strikeouts. The Dodgers' depleted pitching staff and bullpen fatigue have led to fans criticizing the team and manager Dave Roberts for appearing to give up early, despite the strategic logic behind protecting key players. Shohei Ohtani, who has yet to debut for the Dodgers this season, may return to the rotation before the All-Star break, offering some hope for the beleaguered pitching corps. The team is actively linked to sluggers as the MLB trade deadline approaches, signaling efforts to bolster both pitching and offense.