Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — As the Dodgers prepare for the NLDS, Manager Dave Roberts provided insights into the team’s outlook during a Wednsday Zoom interview. He started with updates on key players Freddie Freeman and Miguel Rojas, explaining that both are progressing, although Rojas won’t be at 100%. “Given this week off, that’s kind of where we’ll be with him,” Roberts said, adding that Freeman is improving with each day of activity.
Freeman, a routine-driven player, has had to adjust to time off this year due to injuries. When asked about how this might affect his postseason performance, Roberts reflected, “He certainly is a routine guy…but he came back swinging the bat well after taking time off this year.” Roberts remains optimistic about his role, believing Freeman will be ready for the lineup.
Another topic was how changes in baseball have impacted pitching strategies, particularly the trend toward bullpen games. Roberts acknowledged, “It’s just the way baseball is now. You’re trying to figure out the best way to prevent runs and get 27 outs.”
As for team morale, Roberts noted a noticeable shift in attitude from prior seasons, “I see some more hunger, I see some more edge…our guys are tired of making early postseason exits.” This sense of urgency and determination could provide the Dodgers with the mental edge needed to thrive in the playoffs.
Freeman’s lateral movement around the bag and base running remain areas of concern, but Roberts indicated slight improvements. “Indications are that it’s a little better than it was a couple of days ago, but it’s hard to see a world where it’s not limiting.”
Roberts also praised the camaraderie among players, who have been making personal sacrifices to stay focused. He pointed out that “guys coming together with the watch party, sacrificing time with family…is initiated by the players, which is most powerful.”
When asked about postseason adjustments, particularly in terms of offensive strategy, Roberts emphasized the importance of adaptability: “You have to be able to read and react…at the end of the day, it’s competition. The teams that fight hardest and compete the hardest have the most success.”
With a pitching staff that features standout performances from key starters, Roberts acknowledged that depth in the bullpen gives them flexibility. “In a shorter series, it happens quick…whether a guy goes nine shutout or four-plus, you do what’s best for that night.”
One significant question was how the Dodgers will handle Shohei Ohtani‘s presence in the lineup and how it might ease pressure on stars like Freeman and Mookie Betts. Roberts responded, “Shohei has certainly carried the brunt of the offense…I expect Mookie and Freddie to be the guys they are and have shown in past postseasons.”
As the NLDS approaches, Roberts expressed confidence in the Dodgers’ lineup depth, particularly highlighting its balance against left- and right-handed pitchers. “When everyone’s right, I think we’re very good against both. There’s an on-base, slug component, and a bat-to-ball component.”
Overall, Roberts exuded optimism and confidence in the team’s potential heading into the postseason, especially with the added determination of overcoming past disappointments. “We have a lot to prove, and a lot of people have doubted us…I like that hunger mentality from us.”
Roberts’ interview shed light on the Dodgers’ mental and physical readiness for the NLDS, with key players like Freeman and Rojas on track for the series. The sense of urgency, focus, and hunger within the team could be the driving force behind their postseason success.
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