Dave Roberts: The Unsung Hero of the 2023 Los Angeles Dodgers Season
Despite a disappointing outcome for the Dodgers, Dave Roberts showed his coaching prowess in the face of adversity.
In the rearview mirror of the 2023 MLB season, it’s hard to look at the Los Angeles Dodgers and say it was a successful campaign. The standard in Los Angeles is defined by World Series titles, and when that elusive championship doesn’t materialize, it’s tempting to label the season a failure. Many things went awry for the Dodgers, but one thing is clear: Dave Roberts, the skipper, is not the culprit. Before you jump on the “Fire Roberts” bandwagon, consider this.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2023 Dodgers season was marred by disappointment despite high expectations.
- Dave Roberts, the Dodgers’ skipper, cannot be blamed for the team’s shortcomings.
- Former Dodger and current SportsNet LA analyst Jerry Hairston Jr. praised Roberts for his coaching during the season.
Roberts was not responsible for the disastrous six-run first inning in Game One of the NLDS against the Arizona Diamondbacks. He couldn’t control the offense going cold, including star players like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. In fact, Roberts did everything in his power to put the team in the best position to succeed in the NLDS.
Unfortunately, the Diamondbacks convincingly defeated the Dodgers. But it’s essential to recognize that the players themselves must step up when it matters most, and that didn’t happen. Despite the outcome, Roberts coached to the best of his abilities and exceeded expectations. But don’t just take our word for it; listen to Jerry Hairston Jr., who stated that Roberts had his best coaching season yet.
This version of the Dodgers was predicted to have a down year due to not pursuing last year’s free agents aggressively, losing key players in free agency, and facing tougher competition in their league. Nevertheless, the Dodgers dominated the regular season, as they have consistently done. Rookies made their debuts, and some became integral to the team’s success as they secured their tenth division title in 11 years.
The ultimate goal is always a championship, and the disappointment of falling short is palpable. However, when you consider all the facts, the Dodgers overachieved in the face of adversity, and a significant part of that success can be attributed to Dave Roberts, the eight-year skipper.
Love him or hate him, Dave Roberts isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. He signed a three-year contract extension ahead of the 2022 season, ensuring his presence in Los Angeles through 2025. At the end of this contract, he will be 53 years old, and unless something unforeseen occurs, he is poised to remain with the Dodgers for years to come.
What he did throughout the regular season. I said it, this was his best managerial performance to date. I think he will even continue to get better. With a doubt, Dave Roberts is the man for this job.
In a season filled with ups and downs, Dave Roberts emerged as a stabilizing force for the Dodgers. Despite the ultimate disappointment, his coaching prowess and leadership were vital in guiding the team through a challenging year.
This article explores how Roberts managed to excel in a turbulent season, defying the odds and expectations, ultimately proving his worth as the Dodgers’ skipper.
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