PHOENIX – Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized a familiar mantra as spring training opened this week: remembering what brought the team success. The Dodgers, fresh off their second consecutive World Series title – and fourth in six seasons – enter 2026 with a target on their backs, but Roberts believes a focus on the fundamentals and a commitment to the process will be key to continued dominance. The team finished 2025 with a 102-60 record, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in a thrilling seven-game World Series.
“It’s uncomplicated to gain ahead of yourself, to think about the ultimate goal,” Roberts said during a press conference on February 18th. “But the truth is, it’s about each day, each at-bat, each pitch. Remembering what got us here – the preparation, the attention to detail, the belief in each other – that’s what we demand to carry forward.” Roberts’ comments echo a sentiment he’s expressed throughout his tenure with the Dodgers, a period marked by consistent contention and, increasingly, championship success. He has now surpassed Hall of Famer Tommy Lasorda as the second-most decorated manager in Dodgers history, trailing only Walter Alston, who won four World Series titles.
The Dodgers’ sustained success under Roberts, who has managed the team since 2016, has been built on a blend of star power and organizational depth. The team’s core remains largely intact, but several new faces will be vying for playing time in Cactus League play. Roberts highlighted the importance of integrating these new players into the team’s culture, emphasizing the need for seamless chemistry both on and off the field. He specifically mentioned the need to find roles for several promising prospects who are expected to compete for roster spots.
Building on Back-to-Back Championships
The Dodgers’ recent championship run is unprecedented in modern baseball. Winning consecutive World Series titles is a rare feat, and Roberts acknowledged the challenges of maintaining that level of performance. “Every team is going to be gunning for us,” he said. “They’re going to bring their best every single night. We have to be prepared for that.” The Dodgers’ 2025 World Series victory against the Blue Jays was particularly dramatic, featuring a Game 7 that lasted 11 innings and included multiple lead changes. The Los Angeles Times detailed the intensity of the series, calling it “a game for the ages.”
Roberts’ ability to navigate those high-pressure situations has been a hallmark of his managerial style. He’s known for his calm demeanor and his willingness to trust his players, even in the face of adversity. That trust was evident in his handling of the pitching staff throughout the 2025 postseason, where he frequently made quick decisions with his bullpen.
New Faces, Familiar Goals
While the core of the Dodgers’ roster remains intact, the team has added several new players this offseason, including veteran outfielder Jorge Mateo and promising young pitcher Ethan Klein. Roberts emphasized the importance of giving these players opportunities to showcase their skills during spring training. “We want to see what they can do,” he said. “We want to see how they fit into our system. And we want to give them a chance to compete for a spot on the roster.”
The Dodgers’ front office has also been active in exploring potential trades, seeking to address areas of need and further strengthen the team’s roster. Roberts acknowledged that the team is always looking for ways to improve, but he stressed that the focus will remain on developing the players already within the organization. “We believe in our guys,” he said. “We believe in our system. And we believe that we have the pieces in place to compete for another championship.”
Roberts’ Legacy Continues to Grow
Dave Roberts’ journey to becoming one of the most successful managers in baseball history is a testament to his resilience and his unwavering belief in himself. A former player himself, Roberts understands the challenges that players face and is able to connect with them on a personal level. According to his Wikipedia page, Roberts is nicknamed “Doc,” and played for five MLB teams over a ten-year career before transitioning into coaching.
His impact on the Dodgers organization extends beyond the field. He’s a respected leader in the clubhouse and a valuable voice in the community. His success has solidified his place among baseball’s elite managers, and he shows no signs of slowing down. With a winning percentage of .621 through the 2025 season, Roberts is poised to continue adding to his impressive resume.
Looking Ahead: Spring Training and Beyond
As the Dodgers initiate spring training, the focus will be on refining the team’s fundamentals, developing young players, and preparing for the long season ahead. Roberts emphasized the importance of staying grounded and focusing on the process. “We can’t dwell on the past,” he said. “We can’t get ahead of ourselves. We need to take it one day at a time and focus on getting better.” The Dodgers’ first spring training game is scheduled for February 22nd against the Chicago White Sox. The team will then embark on a full spring training schedule before opening the regular season on March 28th against the San Francisco Giants.
The Dodgers’ pursuit of a third consecutive World Series title will undoubtedly be a challenging one, but with Roberts at the helm and a talented roster, they are well-positioned to contend for another championship. The team’s success will depend on its ability to stay focused, maintain its commitment to the fundamentals, and embrace the challenges that lie ahead. Fans can follow the team’s progress throughout spring training and the regular season on the MLB website and through various media outlets.
