Steve Webb
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the media ahead of Game 3 in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the New York Mets, discussing a range of topics, including Walker Buehler‘s upcoming start, potential lineup changes, and the performance of key players such as Shohei Ohtani and Will Smith. The Dodgers head into the pivotal game with the series tied 1-1.
Buehler’s Preparation forGame 3
Roberts expressed confidence in Walker Buehler, who is set to take the mound in Game 3. Reflecting on Buehler’s start in the National League Division Series (NLDS), Roberts acknowledged that the outcome wasn’t ideal but was pleased with Buehler’s effort and execution.
“I would want the same effort, execution, focus,” Roberts said. “Certainly a different result, and I say that a lot of it was Walker’s, you know, not doing so. I think a lot of the same [is needed]. Obviously, in this situation, the series at 1-1, here on the road again, we feel really confident in Walker. I expect he’s going to come out with the same kind of conviction and focus.”
The Dodgers’ skipper noted that Buehler’s mentality and poise will be crucial as they look to take the series lead in New York.
Sticking With the Lineup Despite Struggles
Amid questions about potentially shuffling the batting order due to Shohei Ohtani’s lack of hits with runners on base and Will Smith’s struggles this postseason, Roberts made it clear he has no plans for significant changes.
“No, there isn’t [going to be a lineup shuffle],” Roberts stated. “Early on, there was concern about Sho [Ohtani] not being able to get hits with runners in scoring position, and now we’re all trying to find ways to get guys on base so he can hit. It’s funny how things change. I don’t think anyone can predict who’s going to get on base in Game 3 or Game 4. I trust the lineup and believe it will come through.”
Roberts did acknowledge, however, that he might make minor tweaks to the lower part of the order but affirmed that Ohtani and Smith will maintain their positions.
Trusting Will Smith Despite a Slump
Regarding Will Smith, who has only two hits this postseason, Roberts noted that Smith has been facing some tough pitching but continues to show resilience at the plate.
“He’s missing some good pitches,” Roberts said. “There have been a lot of balls he’s missing. Will’s working hard, so I don’t know if it’s a mechanical thing. I know it’s not a ‘moment’ type thing. Teams, in particular the Padres, are trying to crowd him a bit. I still trust him in big spots. He’s always performed in the postseason, and hopefully, we have a long way to go.”
Roberts believes that Smith is due for a big hit or two, especially with the right-handed Severino on the mound in Game 3.
Analyzing Ohtani’s Performance
Ohtani’s postseason struggles have drawn attention, with Roberts offering some insight into the difficulty of his at-bats against certain pitchers.
“I do [see that his at-bats have been fine],” Roberts said. “He’s faced some tough pitchers, and they’re pitching him very tough. For me, I’m looking at tomorrow and feeling good about it. I do feel that he’s got to continue to manage his hitting zone regardless of who’s pitching.”
When asked whether Ohtani’s struggles might be attributed to trying to do too much or just the way pitchers are handling him, Roberts pointed out that some at-bats, particularly against Yu Darvish, were surprising.
“I was surprised with the Darvish at-bats. Scott is coming at you with a slider; that’s tough for any left-hander. With Manaea, it’s like trying to hit the ball coming from first base. But outside of that, Darvish’s at-bats stood out to me. It’s like facing your childhood idol, and I don’t know how much that comes into play.”
Injury Updates on Key Players
Roberts also provided updates on the health of Gavin Lux, Freddie Freeman, and Daniel Hudson, all of whom are dealing with various ailments.
“Gavin feels much better today,” Roberts said. “My expectation is he’ll be in there. Freddie, I haven’t seen him yet, but I expect he’ll be in there, and with Huddy, my expectation is he’ll be ready to go tomorrow.”
Managing the Expectations of Elite Players
Reflecting on the pressure that elite players like Ohtani face in the postseason, Roberts acknowledged the expectations that come with being a top talent.
“I think it’s a combo,” he noted. “There’s pressure that they put on themselves initially. But you have to be willing to hold until you get your pitch. Opposing pitchers aren’t going to let them beat them. It’s about being patient and doing what you’ve done throughout your career.”
With the series tied, Roberts’ belief in his players remains strong. He trusts that Buehler’s pitching, the lineup’s ability to adjust, and the resilience of star hitters will help the Dodgers gain the upper hand in Game 3.
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