A top prospect for the Los Angeles Dodgers has been injured in a freak accident involving a bat dog during a minor league game. Kendall George, a first-round pick in 2023, hurt his knee after jumping to avoid the dog while scoring a run for the Tulsa Drillers on Monday.
The Drillers, the Dodgers' Double-A affiliate, have suspended their bat dog programme following the incident. The dog was retrieving a discarded bat as George crossed home plate, forcing the 21-year-old to leap out of the way. George, known for his speed, was visibly frustrated by the dog's actions.
An initial MRI revealed no ligament damage, and George may avoid surgery. He has been performing well this season, batting .333 with 26 stolen bases in 43 games. The Drillers have used bat dogs for the past five seasons, and players had previously expressed support for the programme.
First baseman Brandon Lewis said in 2024 that players were accustomed to the dogs' presence. “You see the play happening, you see the dog run, you give him some time to get the bat and then make your way out there,” he said. “So I don’t think it’s a big problem.”
