Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher David Price. Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

David Price: Dodgers-Padres rivalry at 'next level' after benches cleared

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 4/17/21

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever David Price believes the team's rivalry with the San Diego Padres reached new heights after a benches-clearing incident on Friday night.

"All rivalries in baseball are really good, but once you get that first benches-clearing (moment), that's when it kind of goes to that next level," Price said following L.A.'s 11-6 win, according to MLB.com's Juan Toribio. "I'm sure we'll be ready to play (Saturday) and so will they. I think we have (Clayton Kershaw) going, so, we'll be ready."

Things between the two NL West clubs got heated in extra innings after Dodgers reliever Dennis Santana hit Padres pinch hitter Jorge Mateo, causing the benches to clear.

Jorge Mateo gets hit... and the benches have cleared in San Diego.#HungryForMore pic.twitter.com/IuPf48DO0h
— Bally Sports San Diego (@BallySportsSD) April 17, 2021

Friday's game was the first time the two clubs met since the Dodgers knocked the Padres out of the playoffs during the ALDS last season. They'll meet 18 more times this season, with the potential to meet again in the playoffs.

The Dodgers currently own the best record in the NL West at 12-2. The Padres are third in the division with a 9-6 record.

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