Dave Roberts Speaks at Dodgers Fan Fest

Dave Roberts is man that looks like he has aged about 10 years over the passed two seasons, but nevertheless feels alive and excited for the 2019 Dodgers season to get going. He took time with the media during Saturday’s Fan Fest at Dodger Stadium.

Here is some of the time he spent with of local reporters

Highlights

What do you think of your new outfielder?

I’m excited. Obviously, until it finally gets done you hold your breath, but I’ve seen AJ [Pollock] for quite some time. I think for me — everything I’ve heard as far as the preparation, and what we see on a nightly basis — the way he plays with intensity, the focus… he’s going to fit in really well with our ball club.

What’s the plan with second base this season?

I can see Max at second base a little bit. I can Kiké and Taylor vying for at-bats at second. I can see Kiké and Taylor spelling Corey a little bit at short. So, second base is something that we have a lot of options, but we haven’t defined who’s going to get the lion’s share at second.

He also discussed the lineup consistency being key for this upcoming season.

Offensively, that’s why you have guys like AJ Pollock. Having Corey Seager back will just kind of add to that consistency. There’s guys we had that were very streaky last year — some guys are still with us, some guys aren’t — so I think that it’s not an exact science, but when you look at some track records of some of the guys we’re having in our lineup. A little bit more consistent. That’s our focus.

Dave also touched on the condition of closer Kenley Jansen heading into the season as being positive, and revealed part of the plan for Cody Bellinger in 2019.

Analysis

Dave seems to have a little more focus and motivation behind his eyes weeks ahead of pitchers and catchers reporting. Usually a new 4-year contract will do that for you.

Can he push all the right buttons in 2019?