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Japan Dave Roberts has seamlessly transitioned from a celebrated MLB player, known for his speed and pivotal stolen bases, to a highly successful manager, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to multiple World Series appearances and championships.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts speaks to Marshall students about his whirlwind season with the world champion Dodgers.
Dave Roberts is a partner in Red Stitch Winery, based in Cardiff, California, since 2008.
David Ray Roberts was born on May 31, 1972, in Naha, Okinawa, Japan. His early life involved frequent moves due to his father’s military career, eventually settling in San Diego, California. Roberts attended UCLA, where he excelled in baseball, becoming the school’s all-time stolen base leader with 109 steals. He was initially drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 47th round of the 1993 MLB draft but chose to return to UCLA, eventually signing with the Detroit Tigers after being drafted in the 28th round of the 1994 MLB draft. His playing career spanned parts of 10 seasons in Major League Baseball, showcasing his skills as an outfielder and base-stealing threat for teams including the Cleveland Indians (1999–2001), Los Angeles Dodgers (2002–2004), Boston Red Sox (2004), San Diego Padres (2005–2006), and San Francisco Giants (2007–2008).
Notably, Roberts played a crucial role in the Boston Red Sox’s 2004 World Series victory, executing a pivotal stolen base in the ALCS that sparked a historic comeback against the New York Yankees. His playing career highlights include hitting a career-high .293 for the Padres in 2006 and tying Tony Gwynn’s franchise record with 13 triples in a single season. After retiring as a player, Roberts served as an analyst for the New England Sports Network in 2009 before joining the San Diego Padres front office as a special assistant to baseball operations in 2010. He later became the Padres’ first base coach in 2011 and bench coach in 2014.
In 2016, Roberts was appointed manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, becoming the first minority manager in the franchise’s history. Under his leadership, the Dodgers have consistently achieved success, including winning the NL Manager of the Year Award in his inaugural season. He has guided the Dodgers to multiple World Series appearances, securing championships in 2020 and 2024. Roberts is recognized for his strategic management, particularly his innovative bullpen usage, and for his impactful leadership both on and off the field, including using his platform as a voice for Asian Americans.
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