Roberts demands clutch hits and consistent plate appearances as the Dodgers aim to rebound against the Blue Jays after a tough Game 1.
As the Dodgers prepare for Game 2 of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, manager Dave Roberts addressed key topics, including the team’s offensive approach, lineup decisions, and Shohei Ohtani’s handling of fan reactions.
After dropping Game 1, the Dodgers’ offense has been under the microscope, particularly for its inability to capitalize on run-scoring opportunities. Roberts said he believes the team’s approach was strong early but faltered as the game went on.
“First time through, I thought we were fantastic,” Roberts said. “Second time around, we fell off as far as the quality of at-bats. It’s about being aggressive early but also winning pitches late in the count. Early count hitting, they were better last night. With two strikes, they were better. That’s sort of the tale of the two offenses.”
Roberts stressed that the Dodgers’ ability to finish innings — not just build them — will be crucial going forward.
“We’ve done a nice job at times building innings,” he said. “But when it comes to winning a pitch, getting a base hit, or taking a walk, we haven’t been great situationally. Once we create stress, we’ve got to finish off innings.”
One offensive question mark has been Andy Pages, who continues to start despite postseason struggles. Roberts acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in his defense.
“He has struggled this postseason,” Roberts admitted. “What I need from him is quality at-bats and to get on base. He’s playing very sound defense, which is a big part of why he’s in there. I’m keeping a close eye on it, but I do need to see some consistency.”
The manager also revealed that Tyler Glasnow will start Game 3 and Shohei Ohtani will take the mound in Game 4.
On the topic of Ohtani, Roberts addressed the boos the superstar received from Toronto fans in Game 1.
“I don’t think he understood the chants,” Roberts said with a smile. “He understands why he was booed, and I don’t think it affects him. Shohei’s a great compartmentalizer. He just focuses on doing his job.”
As for defensive versatility, Roberts noted that Tommy Edman’s lingering ankle issue has limited lineup flexibility.
“Part of Tommy’s value is his versatility,” Roberts said. “With the ankle, second base is the best way to keep him on the field and healthy. But not having him available in the outfield has minimized some of that flexibility.”
Looking ahead to Game 2, Roberts said he expects Yoshinobu Yamamoto to be ready for Toronto’s aggressive hitters.
“It’s a cat-and-mouse game,” Roberts said. “They’re an aggressive hitting team early in counts, but Yamamoto can access different parts of the strike zone. He’s got a lot of weapons, and it’s about mixing them effectively.”
Despite the early setback, Roberts remained composed and confident in his group’s ability to respond.
“These guys aren’t going to go away,” he said. “It’s a talented, confident team we’re facing. We just have to keep tacking on, keep pressure on them, and play the kind of baseball we’re capable of.”