Kendall George, a 21‑year‑old Dodgers outfield prospect, broke his patellar tendon while leaping to avoid a bat‑retrieving dog during a Double‑A Tulsa Drillers game. The incident left the young speedster in pain as he slammed his helmet to the ground and limped to the dugout.

George, drafted first overall in 2023, stole 100 bases in the Midwest League last season and posted a .333 average with 26 steals in 29 attempts before the injury. Minor league teams routinely use dogs to collect bats, but the dog’s sudden dart caused the knee blow.

Dodgers officials are assessing the extent of the damage, but early reports suggest the injury may not be as severe as feared. The prospect’s health will impact the organization’s outfield depth chart for the upcoming season, as the club balances veteran options with emerging talent.

George’s sudden exit came as the Drillers chased a win in the second inning, with him sprinting to score before the dog intervened. Fans streamed the clip online, sparking debate over animal safety protocols in baseball. The Dodgers will likely keep him on the disabled list while doctors examine the tendon.