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In a tense National League Division Series, Los Angeles Dodgers' quiet veteran Chris Taylor emphasized the need for intensity against the San Diego Padres. Despite this rallying cry, the Dodgers have struggled to match their rivals' energy and now face the brink of elimination. The Dodgers fell once again in Game 3, losing 6-5 to the Padres in a heated contest that showcased pivotal moments and a few questionable calls.

During a high-energy pre-game meeting, Taylor underscored that matching the Padres' intensity would be critical. However, by the third game, the Dodgers had yet to find the fury and energy necessary to overcome their opponents. After a tumultuous series of events in Game 2, including fans throwing items at the Padres and Manny Machado’s controversial actions, Game 3 did not unfold in the Dodgers' favor.

Outfielder Mookie Betts, who broke his postseason hitless streak with a solo home run, emphasized the need for a step-by-step focus. "We have to just look at the task at hand, and that's one pitch at a time," Betts stated. Similarly, catcher Will Smith stressed the urgency, noting that the team must fight against elimination.

The Dodgers initially took the lead in Tuesday's game, an uncommon occurrence in their recent October outings. However, a disastrous second inning saw them lose momentum. The trouble began with pitcher Walker Buehler, who encountered a pitch-clock violation amidst the loud chants of "Manny! Manny!" from Padres fans. Machado then capitalized on this and triggered a series of events that highlighted the Padres' savvy gameplay.

A potential double-play was foiled by Machado’s strategic positioning, causing first baseman Freddie Freeman's throw to ricochet off Machado's helmet. Despite complaints from Buehler and shortstop Miguel Rojas about possible interference, the umpires ruled the play legal. "It's not a replayable challenge play," explained Dodgers manager Roberts, commending Machado's tactical decision.

Subsequent missteps compounded the Dodgers' woes. Buehler induced another ground ball, but Rojas, hindered by an adductor strain, botched a double-play attempt, allowing the Padres to tie the game. This decision not only contributed to the Dodgers' downfall but also aggravated Rojas’s injury, forcing him to exit in the following inning.

The lack of precision and failure to execute under pressure left the Dodgers in a precarious position. With the Padres poised to eliminate them, the Dodgers must find a way to recalibrate and inject the much-needed intensity they talked about ahead of the series. As the series progresses, they must heed Taylor’s advice and rise to the occasion if they hope to avoid another postseason disappointment.