Steve Webb
BRONX, NY — In the postgame interview following the Dodgers’ critical 4-2 win over the New York Yankees, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts offered detailed insights into his team’s performance and mindset as they moved within one game of capturing the World Series title. The win underscored the team’s depth and resilience, qualities that Roberts praised extensively.
Ohtani’s Gritty Performance
Asked about Shohei Ohtani’s condition, particularly his ability to stay in the lineup despite visible discomfort, Roberts expressed admiration for Ohtani’s perseverance. “I thought he did a really nice job of competing,” Roberts remarked, emphasizing that Ohtani was determined to “post tonight,” despite the physical strain he appeared to be enduring. Roberts noted, “Obviously just him in the batter’s box starting the game off, getting on base by way of a walk…I just really appreciate him.” His appreciation underlined the Dodgers’ ethos of grit and collective commitment, attributes that Roberts has instilled in the team.
Walker Buehler’s Dominant Outing
Walker Buehler, the Dodgers’ starting pitcher, showcased a stellar performance, leaving the Yankees’ lineup struggling to make any substantial contact. Reflecting on Buehler’s efforts, Roberts shared, “Walker was fantastic,” crediting Buehler’s mastery of all his pitches, from a lively fastball to an effective cutter and curveball. “He pitched to all quadrants and kept those guys honest,” Roberts said, adding that the Dodger ace “kept them at bay,” with minimal stress, embodying the kind of postseason presence the Dodgers rely on from Buehler.
Unexpected Success of the Rotation
Throughout the series, the Dodgers’ pitching staff, initially considered by some as a potential weak point, has outperformed expectations. Roberts acknowledged the outside skepticism: “There was a lot said about the rotation given the injuries… but we just kind of came together collectively.” Highlighting the team’s adaptability and effectiveness in “piecing it together,” Roberts said they have consistently found ways to prevent runs despite the challenges.
Defensive Highlights by Betts and Hernández
The Dodgers’ defensive plays also proved instrumental, with Mookie Betts and Teoscar Hernández stepping up in crucial moments. The defensive tandem produced a pivotal double-play sequence that helped preserve the lead. Roberts recalled, “Mookie’s play on the sinking liner from Jazz… I thought Walker was starting to feel it a little bit… so that play at home plate was just huge for all of us.” These clutch defensive stops not only stymied the Yankees’ momentum but also infused the Dodgers with renewed energy.
The Importance of Staying Urgent
The Dodgers’ potential for a World Series victory has stirred reminders of Roberts’ own comeback experiences from his playing days. However, Roberts was quick to downplay these comparisons, stressing that his team’s success requires focus and urgency rather than dwelling on past achievements. “We have got to stay focused, stay urgent,” he stated. “Offensively… we left a lot of runs out there tonight, but still found a way to win a ball game. There’s just got to be urgency.”
Ohtani’s Resilience Despite Pain
Roberts addressed Ohtani’s visible discomfort during some swings, acknowledging the resilience of the star player. “Balls that were away that he chased a little bit… I saw a couple of winces,” Roberts observed. But he quickly shifted the focus to Ohtani’s determination, underscoring that “he’s going to be in there tomorrow,” reflecting the shared grit across the team.
Freeman’s Physical Resurgence
Asked about Freddie Freeman’s unexpected endurance and standout performance in the series, Roberts was not surprised. Freeman, who has overcome some early-season injuries, displayed remarkable resilience, going “first to third” aggressively and hitting with consistent power. Roberts credited the time off before the series, which allowed Freeman to “kind of get out of the woods,” adding, “Now that we’re out of the woods… it’s manageable and sustainable.”
Betts’ Consistency and Clutch Hitting
One of the Dodgers’ most valuable assets, Mookie Betts, has been a driving force throughout the postseason. Roberts described Betts as “one of the best players on the planet” and highlighted his ability to set the tone for the team. In this game, Betts’ at-bat was crucial, showing patience and resilience, ultimately driving in a key run. Roberts remarked, “That at-bat to just kind of win pitches, get down with two strikes, and to keep fighting… we did that all night.”
The Drive for a True Championship Celebration
With just one more win needed, Roberts was asked if his players are motivated to capture a title outside of the shortened 2020 season. For Roberts, the drive is strong among both veterans and newer players, many of whom were on the team for the 2020 season but were deprived of a traditional championship celebration. “We want that parade; we never got a chance to celebrate with the city of Los Angeles,” he shared, underscoring the team’s hunger and dedication as they approach a potential series-clinching game.
Roberts’ Final Message
As he closed out his comments, Roberts conveyed his pride and optimism for his team, emphasizing the focus required to achieve their goal. “You have an opportunity to be a world champion, and we’re right there,” he said. For Roberts and the Dodgers, each game in this journey has been about more than just winning — it’s about honoring their collective commitment to excellence and bringing the title home to Los Angeles.
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