Whenever Dave Roberts considers his future in baseball, he reflects on a straightforward question: what are you chasing?
A few years back, that question often made him feel “uneasy.”
Before the Dodgers established their modern dynasty by winning consecutive championships, before they achieved remarkable success that few teams have seen in over a century, Roberts found himself anxious about his career path and personal satisfaction in such a high-pressure role.
He now boasts the most wins as a manager in MLB history, having also secured a championship during the pandemic-altered 2020 season that led them back to the World Series.
However, early playoff exits in 2022 and 2023 cast doubt on his job security, prompting some introspection. At one point, he asked himself, “How long do I want to do this?”
Recently, while having lunch at a waterfront restaurant in San Diego, he shared, “I love the question, ‘What are you chasing?’ After a loss, you really start to ponder that. Am I going for a championship? We already have one, but will it bring fulfillment? Honestly, I didn’t know.”
He noted that not having a clear answer to that question only heightened his anxiety.
Fast forward two years, and that uncertainty has vanished.
As he enters 2026, Roberts stands at the height of his managerial career, poised for a potential third consecutive World Series title, crediting his “steadfast faith” as key to their success. “It’s how we’ve been doing things for the past decade.”
Roberts feels the stability in the front office, ownership, and team culture has been crucial. “What we should reflect on is how we won, and I take pride in that.”
With a newfound connection to the fan base, he has let go of past frustrations. While he admitted feeling “sometimes upset” about public criticism, he’s grateful for the loyal support from fans. “I’d rather have passionate fans than hear boos at home during the World Series,” he quipped. “I guess I can hold the record now.”
Above all, Roberts experiences a deeper satisfaction from his role. He believes the meaning extends beyond just victories and titles.
“Right now, I feel like I’m pursuing happiness, joy, and success, however that looks,” he explained. “A championship is certainly part of it, but there’s more to it than that, and I’m confident I’m achieving it.”
Reflecting on last October’s title defense, he highlighted the “complete buy-in” from his players. He expressed how well he managed the pitching staff and the batting lineup with their full support.
“I was never questioned about my decisions,” he said, emphasizing the players’ commitment to the team’s mission. They all felt their roles were valued, which is rare for any head coach or manager.
Roberts noted his growth as a manager, stating that his decision-making has “really slowed down” after a decade in leadership.
“I think there’s a bell curve to aging as an athlete,” he said. “But in coaching, experience actually enhances your abilities, which is kind of ironic. At 53, I still feel like I’m just getting started.”
Now, with a new four-year contract that includes a record annual salary of $8.1 million, his worries about the future have dissipated.
“I’m not claiming I can stay as long as Tommy Lasorda or Walt Alston,” he said, acknowledging the legendary tenures, “but I don’t see myself going anywhere for a while.”
In seeking to prolong his managerial career, he changed his lifestyle recently—revamping his diet and nearly eliminating alcohol. This offseason, he visibly slimmed down, shedding 12 pounds.
“I’m in the best shape of my managerial career,” Roberts joked, sipping a detox juice and eating a healthy meal.
He recalled a moment last August, after a tough time in Pittsburgh, when he acknowledged to himself, “I’ve got to make a change… I looked in the mirror, saw I was out of shape, and thought, ‘This isn’t me.’”
Roberts didn’t want to become one of those coaches who let themselves go or seemed tired and defeated.
“I think there are optics,” he remarked. “If I look healthy and energized, I believe that will translate to the clubhouse.”
He certainly doesn’t wish to revert to his past self, contemplating what he truly seeks in the job where he now feels rejuvenated.
“I’m genuinely enjoying this situation,” he declared. “I feel energized. I really feel energized.”
