Roberts Remains Optimistic About Dodgers’ Future
Dave Roberts isn’t holding himself accountable for past failures. Instead, he’s focused on the bright future ahead for the 2026 Dodgers.
Over his decade-long tenure managing the Dodgers, the expectations have consistently been the same: either win the World Series or face disappointment. But, of course, the reasons why the team needs to achieve this are always evolving. Ending a long title drought, addressing the peculiarities of the pandemic-altered 2020 title, shaking off a history of October letdowns, and now, the ambition of back-to-back championships for the first time in 25 years—all those goals add layers to the stakes.
This year’s pressure is palpable and perhaps even more intense.
The Dodgers are in pursuit of a third consecutive World Series title—a feat accomplished only twice since MLB’s expansion era began in 1961. As they set out to solidify their place among the greats, they do so while wrestling with ongoing uncertainties within the sport, including debates over competitive balance and economic fairness, a situation exacerbated by their own dominance.
“That’s who we are,” Roberts stated, reflecting on what he sees as the team’s identity. “That’s the expectation.”
When discussing the upcoming season with the California Post, Roberts didn’t shy away from the ambitions or potential hurdles. Instead, he drew historical parallels between his team and the storied New York Yankees of the late 1990s, noting that their continued success could further strengthen the argument for their greatness.
He acknowledges the pressure piling around them, saying, “If we claim that our only goal is to win, we also must recognize the hurdles that come with it. And I think that’s a beneficial thing.”
Asked if he felt ready to promise a third straight championship, he laughed, clearly confident. “That’s the plan,” he replied.
Looking at the Dodgers’ 2026 blueprint, the situation seems tricky yet promising.
The organization plans to retain almost all of its 2025 roster, having recently signed four-time All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker to a hefty $240 million deal. They are also mostly keeping their pitching lineup intact—aside from the recently retired Clayton Kershaw—while bolstering their bullpen by acquiring top closer Edwin Diaz for $69 million. Plus, Shohei Ohtani will be available as a full-time two-way player for the first time during his time with the Dodgers.
Unsurprisingly, experts now view the Dodgers as heavy favorites for the upcoming season, with their odds significantly better than their closest competitors. Over at FanGraphs, the Dodgers are leading in team WAR projections by a wide margin.
“The roster they’ve assembled is a testament to their commitment to winning and delivering for the fans,” Tucker mentioned at his introductory press conference, emphasizing that this level of talent is not commonplace.
However, the team will have to navigate a uniquely challenging road ahead.
In the past couple of years, the Dodgers have played 33 postseason games, placing considerable stress on their aging roster. Third baseman Max Muncy explained, “It’s like playing a month to a month-and-a-half without rest. The intensity is at another level, both mentally and physically.”
Last October, addressing their need for additional pitching depth, especially in the starting rotation, President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman flagged the injury risks for the following season.
Even after players passionately expressed their desire to win a third championship at last November’s World Series parade, management isn’t overly concerned about motivation levels. Ohtani declared his readiness to pursue another ring, while Mookie Betts, eyeing his fifth championship, echoed that sentiment with enthusiasm.
Yet, challenges lie ahead, particularly in managing the roster strategically. The team will be more careful with pitchers’ workloads and aim to give veteran hitters some extra days off to cope with the 162-game grind.
“The mental and emotional toll is significant,” Roberts reflected, noting that last season’s intensity fluctuated. “It’s not easy to maintain that high energy throughout the year, especially when you’re reaching for that level of achievement.”
Roberts, however, isn’t shying away from the expectations or the pressure that comes with them. He hopes the team can utilize those challenges to strengthen an already solid organizational culture, one that has pushed them to the height of the sport and the brink of historic accolades.
“It really comes down to our players,” he said. “We’ll lean into those expectations. I have faith in them. They understand what it takes to manage these expectations, and that comes with experience.”
