Oklahoma City Comets Outfielder Struck by Scooter-Riding Mascot During Sacramento Game

A minor league baseball player became the subject of viral attention Saturday when Sacramento River Cats mascot Dinger, riding an electric scooter and dressed as Santa Claus, collided with Oklahoma City Comets outfielder Alek Thomas during a Christmas in July celebration at Sutter Health Park. The collision occurred as the mascot passed in front of the visiting team’s dugout and Thomas stepped onto the field directly into the scooter’s path.

Thomas, who was acquired by the Los Angeles Dodgers organization after being traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks earlier in the season, remained in the game following the impact. He appeared in the team’s lineup just days later, suggesting he avoided serious injury despite the forceful nature of the encounter.

The incident adds to a growing list of unusual mishaps involving Dodgers minor league players and team entertainment features. In May, Double-A Tulsa Drillers prospect Kendall George was injured when he was forced to avoid the team’s bat dog during a game, raising questions about safety protocols during minor league game-night productions.