Dave Roberts deserves his flowers.
Prior to the Los Angeles Dodgers breaking through last year, he often was criticized by the media and the fan base for his managerial choices. The disgruntlement and criticism has fortunately died down over the last calendar year given the fact he’s established himself as one of the most decorated, well-liked, and well-respected skippers in the history of the sport.
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With the goal of essentially starting a dynasty with multiple consecutive championships, Roberts isn’t shying away from the expectations or the naysayers.
When taking the stage after winning the NLCS, Roberts addressed the narrative head-on that the Dodgers are “ruining baseball” with their spending. This is something that all facets of the franchise will take personally. The amount of effort and time in crafting a roster with exceptional chemistry is something rarely spoken about. The same can be said about player development at an unparalleled level.
Some may view Roberts cutting a WWE-style promo as the leader of the heel faction (or franchise in this case), but it’s something welcomed on the backing of warranted confidence. The Dodgers set the golden standard within the sport. They represent the model that virtually every other ballclub wants to imitate. While they do have money and spend accordingly, there’s also a small market mindset firmly rooted in the operation relating back to Andrew Friedman’s time in Tampa.
The team seeks out any advantage it can get, and that includes discarded players looking to revitalize and/or create careers for themselves. Max Muncy, Justin Turner, Chris Taylor, Kiké Hernández, Tyler Anderson, Michael Kopech, Evan Phillips, and Tommy Edman are a few that come to mind.
During the team’s celebration after the win in Game 4 of the NLCS versus the Milwaukee Brewers, Roberts specifically addressed the team and offered a mindful message.
“We talked about the focus. Winning this World Series the most important thing for each one of us and our families,” Roberts said. “It started in spring training. It’s going to end with four more wins. Keep the edge and let’s stay in the hunt, guys.”
The celebration in winning the NLCS was not as boisterous as one may think. Outfielder Andy Pages caught the final out and tossed the ball into a crowd as if it was the end of an inning during a lazy afternoon in May.
However, the workmanlike approach with this team is understandable. Winning the NLCS is a goal — but it’s not the ultimate goal.
Based on how well the Dodgers have performed over their last 30 games (24-6), they figure to be a very tough out for the American League representative.
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Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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