Dodgers Interview: Dave Roberts on Rivalry Weekend, Max Muncy’s Edge, and Kershaw’s Return: “This Is Just the Beginning”
As MLB kicks off “Rivalry Weekend,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared his thoughts on the team’s vibe, player progress, and the much-anticipated return of Clayton Kershaw. Speaking ahead of their series with the Angels, Roberts kept things honest, optimistic, and as always, grounded in the bigger picture.
On the Freeway Series: “I like where we’re at right now.”
Asked about the Dodgers-Angels rivalry, Roberts acknowledged the geographic buzz but stayed focused on his own team:
“The geography lends itself to a rivalry… I’m not sure how well they’re playing, but I like where we’re at right now.”
He praised the Dodgers’ recent offensive surge, noting better at-bats up and down the lineup.
“The bottom of the order is bleeding into the top — that’s where the run production is coming from.”
Max Muncy Finding His Edge Again
Max Muncy’s intensity has always been part of his game — for better or worse. But Roberts believes this version of Max is trending in the right direction.
“He’s an emotional guy, wears it on his sleeve. But I think right now, we’re on the other side of that early-season hole he always seems to dig out of.”
“His mindset has been fantastic this year. I just want him to stay more consistent with the swing.”
Reinforcements on the Way — Including Kershaw
Roberts gave injury updates on key players, including Teoscar Hernandez (rehab this weekend), Tommy Edman (expected back Sunday), and Clayton Kershaw, who is set to return tomorrow.
“I’m excited for the intensity. Kersh brings a shot in the arm of emotion… He’s coming back with something to prove after missing last postseason.”
Roberts said the superstar mentality — and the desire to finish what he started — is fueling Kershaw’s comeback.
On Rookies: “There’s value in just being here.”
While playing time might be limited for guys like Dalton Rushing and Hyeseong Kim, Roberts sees value in them just being part of the big-league environment:
“You can argue they should be playing every day in the minors. Or you can argue being here and learning is more beneficial. Right now, they’re with us.”
On Roki Sasaki’s Injury & Communication
Roberts addressed why Roki Sasaki didn’t immediately report pain that affected his performance:
“He’s a competitor — he wanted to be out there. But communication’s got to work both ways. Hopefully he learned something from this.”
Firefighter Appreciation Night
Finally, Roberts took a moment to reflect on what Firefighter Appreciation Night means for the city and for the team:
“These men and women don’t get noticed enough. To highlight them and show gratitude — that’s what tonight is about.”
Bottom Line: The Dodgers are heating up, and with players getting healthy — and Kershaw’s return just hours away — Roberts is confident the best is yet to come.
“We’re a quarter of the way in — and this is just the beginning.”
