SACRAMENTO
Two years ago in October, the Dodgers reached a turning point, largely thanks to manager Dave Roberts, who played a crucial role in keeping the team focused.
Despite the pressure—his job security in question, his legacy on the line, and facing a 2-1 deficit against the Padres in the 2024 National League Division Series—the team was poised on the edge of an early playoff exit for the third consecutive year.
Roberts celebrated his 1,000th career win on Tuesday, achieving this milestone faster than any other manager in MLB history. His journey to this landmark has been punctuated by unique challenges during his time in charge.
“He maintained his composure,” veteran infielder Miguel Rojas remarked. “Even in tough moments, we knew we had a shot at winning and making it to the World Series.”
Players frequently point to Roberts’ calmness as a defining trait in his leadership over the last decade, which has been marked by the franchise’s unprecedented success.
“Managing various personalities, injuries, and constant lineup changes is no small feat,” noted shortstop Mookie Betts. “He welcomes different personalities but keeps his own ego in check.”
This balance is tricky, particularly with so many star players in the clubhouse. It’s rare to see such strong personalities coexist harmoniously over extended periods.
“Roberts represents a vital part of this organization,” Rojas added. “His rapport with all the players is a testament to why he’s an outstanding coach.”
As Roberts nears retirement, Rojas has been keenly observing his methods, considering his own future in coaching.
“I get why some coaches clash with their players; it’s nearly impossible to keep everyone satisfied simultaneously,” Rojas said. “Yet here, especially recently, you rarely hear of players being unhappy about their roles. A clubhouse like this, where everyone feels valued, is uncommon. It’s a testament to how well Doc manages different personalities.”
Betts serves as a prime illustration of Roberts’ impact.
When Betts joined the Dodgers in 2020, expectations surged. For him, Roberts was more than just a manager; he was a guiding figure.
“Honestly, I think of him as kind of a baseball dad,” Betts shared. “He’s always supportive… more than just a manager.”
His hands-off approach allows players the freedom to navigate their struggles, stepping in only when necessary.
“When he does intervene, his voice carries weight,” Betts explained. “It feels more like a father-son dynamic than a traditional coach-player relationship, which resonates deeply for us.”
This bond shone through in 2024.
Toward the end of the season, after Tyler Glasnow’s injury, Roberts convened a team meeting to rally spirits as their World Series hopes waned.
In a critical elimination game against the Padres, with key players Rojas and Freddie Freeman injured, Roberts had to make tough calls on starters and pitching strategies.
“He had to trust his instincts to select players who would excel, even under pressure,” Rojas noted, highlighting adjustments like adding Quique Hernandez to the lineup and reworking the infield. These decisions played a crucial role in a dominant 8-0 victory at Petco Park, securing another win in a must-win Game 5 and claiming the championship for the first time in two years.
“Right next to him is how effectively he navigated that game,” Rojas added, reflecting fondly on those moments.
Roberts described the praise from players as “the biggest compliment,” echoing sentiments from Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh: “I want to be the best coach for all of my players.”
“This really resonates with me. If Miggy, Freddie, and Mookie can discuss the culture and my impact, that’s a win,” Roberts explained. “I’m not just after wins; I’m focused on building meaningful relationships with my players. While wins naturally follow, a coach’s ultimate goal should be to genuinely connect with the people around them.”
This approach has earned Roberts three World Series championships, a likely Hall of Fame career, and a milestone of 1,000 victories.
“Ultimately, it’s about the atmosphere in this clubhouse,” Rojas concluded. “That’s what differentiates Doc from all the other managers I’ve worked with.”
