Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Believes His Team is Moving the Line Better Than Ever
Among the many changes compared to years past, Dave Roberts noticed one significant alteration in mindset for his 2023 roster that’s led to the team’s success.
Thought to be a transitional year for many outside the organization, LA’s skipper noted an unselfish approach at the plate contributing to another division crown and first-round bye in just a week’s time.
“I think that this team values getting a base hit more than any team that we’ve had collectively. You know, two outs, a guy on second base and you’ve got the driver in your hand and you’re a hundred yards from the pin, it doesn’t play. But if you can still just get a base hit, which we have done a lot, we’ve hit some homers in that spot. But for the most part, we get a knock. And I think that our guys — and I use Freddie — it starts with Freddie in that vain.”
via Dave Roberts, AM 570 LA
Mentioning Freeman’s contributions in this regard, the star first baseman’s stellar season has come with a top 10 ranking for two out RBI in the entire league.
More impressively, Freeman isn’t first or even second on his team as Mookie Betts and J.D. Martinez both have racked up more runs batted in these critical situations for the entire season.
Martinez’s RBI numbers become increasingly impressive knowing he’s missed over 50 games this season and still has 96 total, including 51 with two men out to lead all of baseball.
Betts to his credit has led the NL in WAR after his scorching August, worthy of MVP consideration with his third-leading total of 46 two-out RBI another aspect of his amazing season.
The consistency across the lineup has been infectious throughout the season and much of that can likely be attributed to the locker room culture brought by veteran additions to the clubhouse this year.
Thanks in large part to Jason Heyward and Freeman’s restored chemistry from their time in Atlanta, Martinez and Betts from their times in Boston, and Miguel Rojas emerging as a veteran leader and fresh face, LA is on pace for yet another 100 win season in 2023.
Hoping this momentum carries into the postseason, this regular season has already been Roberts’ best managerial season in Dodger blue yet.
Photo Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
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I agree with this. This is why they lead the league in 2 out runs. But this is also what has baffled me the last two Postseasons. In the 2020 Postseason it was clear that they prioritized putting the ball in play and keep the line moving. And it worked out perfectly. And then in ‘21 and ‘22 they reverted back to swinging for the fences and got smoked each year. If they can continue with this offensive approach I really like their chances this year.