Steve Webb
Dave Roberts turns 52 today. And before Twitter starts to complain about him again, it’s worth appreciate him for who he is. For better or worse, he has been a transformative figure in the history of the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading the team to remarkable success and reinvigorating the franchise. On his birthday, it’s a fitting moment to appreciate his managerial career and the impact he has had on the Dodgers.
Dave Roberts took over as the Dodgers’ manager in 2016, succeeding Don Mattingly. From the outset, he brought a fresh perspective and an unwavering sense of optimism to the team. His debut season was nothing short of spectacular, as he guided the Dodgers to a 91-71 record and a National League West title, a testament to his ability to inspire and lead. That year, Roberts was named National League Manager of the Year, a well-deserved accolade that highlighted his immediate influence on the team.
One of the most notable aspects of Roberts’ managerial style is his emphasis on team chemistry and camaraderie. He has fostered an environment where players support each other, and this sense of unity has been pivotal in the Dodgers’ sustained success. Roberts’ positive demeanor and approachable personality have made him a beloved figure in the clubhouse and among fans.
Under Roberts’ leadership, the Dodgers have become a perennial powerhouse in Major League Baseball. Other than the dogfight with the Giants in 2021, the team has won the National League West every year since he took the helm, showcasing an impressive level of consistency. Roberts’ strategic acumen and willingness to embrace analytics have played a crucial role in maintaining the Dodgers’ competitive edge. His ability to blend traditional baseball wisdom with modern analytics has set him apart as a forward-thinking manager.
The pinnacle of Roberts’ managerial career came in 2020 when he led the Dodgers to their first World Series championship in 32 years. That season was fraught with challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Roberts’ steady leadership helped the team navigate the uncertainties and ultimately triumph. The World Series victory was a monumental achievement, bringing joy to Dodgers fans who had waited decades for the title. It cemented Roberts’ legacy as one of the most successful managers in the franchise’s storied history.
Roberts’ tenure has also been marked by his adept handling of a diverse roster filled with both seasoned veterans and young talent. He has shown a keen ability to manage the egos and expectations of superstar players while also nurturing and developing emerging stars. His approach has ensured that the Dodgers not only compete at the highest level but also have a pipeline of talent ready to contribute to future success.
Beyond the on-field achievements, Roberts has been a pillar of the community, engaging with fans and participating in numerous charitable activities. His character and integrity have made him a role model, not just for the players he manages, but for the broader baseball community. He represents the Dodgers with grace and dignity, making fans proud to have him as the face of their team.
Of course, he has a legion of naysayers, those who feel that he should have done better with this stacked lineup. But that is a lot of wishful thinking in that criticism. With the new playoff format, the most a manager can do is give his team a shot to win it all, and Dave Roberts has done that every year. Are there some in-game moves that I quibble with? Of course there are. And you can’t just shrug off every failure with “that’s baseball.” However, the numbers speak for themselves: 789 – 465, good for a lifetime winning percentage of .629. That’s better than all but four big league managers in their careers. However, the failures of the last three seasons have left some worried about Roberts’ future with the club if he doesn’t deliver a “piece of metal” to LA. It’s a rough scale to be judged by, but we should all be so lucky.
When asked about his birthday before the game, Roberts was upbeat about turning 52. “Other than being with my family, there is no place on earth I’d rather be,” he said of being back at Chavez Ravine for the game with the Colorado Rockies. “To have a home birthday with a game… the Lord has blessed us with a beautiful day, it’s great!”
As we celebrate Dave Roberts’ birthday, it is a perfect time to reflect on his remarkable contributions to the Dodgers. His leadership has brought the team sustained success, a World Series title, and a renewed sense of pride for fans. Roberts’ impact extends beyond the wins and losses; he has cultivated a culture of excellence and unity that will benefit the franchise for years to come. For Dodgers fans, Dave Roberts is more than a manager—he is a symbol of hope, resilience, and triumph.
