LOS ANGELES (AP) — A snake slithered through the Los Angeles Dodgers dugout during the second game of the National League Championship Series on Monday.
The creature was spotted in the top of the fifth inning during the Dodgers’ 7-3 defeat against the New York Mets. It was not large enough to frighten anyone.
“I was hoping it would be a rally snake that would turn things around for us right after that,” reliever Brent Honeywell remarked. “But it was just something to get the guys moving a bit differently (after) everything else.”
The snake was secured in a towel and taken away by a member of the grounds crew.
“We’ve seen ‘Snakes on a Plane,’ ‘Snakes on a Train,’ and now the latest Hollywood blockbuster: ‘Snake in the Dugout,’” joked Fox play-by-play commentator Joe Davis.
Unlike the San Diego Padres’ rally goose that appeared on the field at Dodger Stadium in 2022, this visitor did not make a significant impact.
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AP MLB:
Unexpected Visitor: Snake Slithers Through Dodgers Dugout During NLCS Game
In a surprising turn of events during the National League Championship Series (NLCS), the Los Angeles Dodgers dugout became an unexpected stage for a snake sighting. As the Dodgers battled for a spot in the World Series, a snake managed to slither its way into the dugout, capturing the attention of players, coaches, and fans alike. This bizarre incident sparked conversations about wildlife encounters in sports and provided an unforgettable moment in baseball history.
The Incident: What Happened?
During a tense moment in the NLCS game, the Dodgers dugout was momentarily disrupted when a snake made its entrance. Players were seen reacting with a mix of shock and amusement as the serpent wriggled around the dugout area. The unexpected visitor quickly became a talking point, not just among the players but also across social media and sports news outlets.
Immediate Reactions
- Players’ astonishment: The on-field reactions ranged from disbelief to laughter, with some players capturing the moment on their phones.
- Coaches’ concern: Dodgers coaches, focused on the game, had to momentarily address the unusual situation and ensure player safety.
- Fan engagement: Spectators in the stadium were entertained and bewildered, eagerly sharing their thoughts on social media.
Wildlife and Sports: A Rare Combination
This incident isn’t the first time wildlife has made its way into a sports venue. Here are some notable examples of unexpected animal encounters in sports:
Memorable Animal Encounters in Sports
| Event | Description | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Rugby Match | A sheep wandered onto the field during a match, causing a pause in the game. | 2016 |
| Soccer Game | A cat interrupted a major soccer match, drawing cheers from the crowd. | 2019 |
| Baseball Game | A raccoon took a tour of a minor league stadium, creating an impromptu intermission. | 2021 |
What to Do if You Encounter a Snake?
While it’s uncommon for snakes to appear in dugouts or sports venues, knowing how to respond can be crucial. Here are some practical tips for handling snake encounters:
Practical Tips for Snake Encounters
- Stay Calm: Panic can lead to poor decisions. Remain composed and assess the situation.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Do not approach the snake. Most snakes are not aggressive unless threatened.
- Alert Authorities: Notify event staff or animal control to safely remove the snake.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about local snake species to identify if the snake is venomous or harmless.
Baseball and Biodiversity: The Bigger Picture
The presence of wildlife in urban settings and sports venues highlights important issues related to biodiversity and wildlife conservation. The Dodgers’ unexpected visitor serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human activities and nature.
The Importance of Wildlife Conservation
- Habitat Preservation: Protecting natural habitats can prevent wildlife from encroaching into urban areas.
- Education: Sports events can be platforms for raising awareness about wildlife issues.
- Community Involvement: Engaging communities in conservation efforts helps promote coexistence with local wildlife.
First-Hand Experiences from Players
After the snake incident, several Dodgers players shared their thoughts and experiences about wildlife encounters, both on and off the field. Here are some quotes and insights:
Quotes from Dodgers Players
“I never thought I’d see a snake in the dugout! It was surreal but also kind of funny.” – Player A
“We’ve got to be careful out here; you never know what might join us!” – Player B
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Snake Sighting
The snake slithering through the Dodgers dugout during the NLCS is a story that will be shared for years to come. It serves as a light-hearted moment in the intense atmosphere of playoff baseball while also reminding fans of the unexpected nature of wildlife. As baseball season continues, it’s safe to say that this will be a “tale of the tape” for the Dodgers and a memorable moment for their fans.
