With the Dodgers up 2–0 in the NLCS, Dave Roberts emphasized urgency and execution ahead of Game 3 at Dodger Stadium. He praised Tyler Glasnow’s “compete mode” mentality and Shohei Ohtani’s decision to take on-field BP in a very rare occurrence, calling it a sign of postseason urgency.
Up 2–0 in the NLCS, the Dodgers enter Game 3 at Dodger Stadium with a chance to take full control of the series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Before first pitch, manager Dave Roberts met with reporters to discuss Tyler Glasnow’s mindset, Shohei Ohtani’s adjustments, and how his team’s disciplined identity continues to shine in October.
Set to start Game 3, Glasnow has found a rhythm this postseason by focusing less on perfection and more on competing pitch to pitch. Roberts praised the right-hander’s growth and mental approach.
“I think what stood out most [in his last outing] is he’s in compete mode,” Roberts said. “When you try to be perfect or worry about things out of your control, it takes away from what you do best. Tyler’s been focused on making pitches, staying in the moment, and competing — and that’s when we get the best version of him.”
Roberts also stressed that precision and focus remain critical with the Dodgers just two wins away from another pennant. “In the postseason, everything is magnified,” he said. “When you don’t give up extra outs or extra bases, you give yourself the best chance to win. That’s part of our identity — not beating ourselves and minding the little things.”
Shohei Ohtani drew attention on Wednesday after taking batting practice on the field for the first time all season. Roberts said the move reflected Ohtani’s willingness to adapt under playoff pressure.
“The postseason is like a street fight,” Roberts said. “There’s urgency in every pitch and every at-bat. Shohei wanted to make an adjustment, and getting on the field to see the flight of the ball — that’s a great thing. He looked great.”
Roberts also acknowledged that the Dodgers’ aggressive at-bats have pushed Milwaukee’s bullpen to its limits early in the series. Facing left-hander Aaron Ashby again, Roberts said the plan is to “keep applying pressure” and force the Brewers to rely on their high-leverage arms once more.
Finally, Roberts praised Mookie Betts for being named a Gold Glove finalist at shortstop. “The only person who believed this could happen was Mookie,” Roberts said. “It’s incredible — he’s earned it.”
With Glasnow on the mound and confidence running high, Roberts’ message heading into Game 3 was clear: stay disciplined, stay urgent, and keep pressing the advantage.