Amid the Dodgers’ disappointing playoff performance, speculation has intensified regarding manager Dave Roberts’ role in the team’s losses, leading to considerable frustration from his family, particularly his wife. Roberts, who has led the Dodgers for nearly a decade, has faced sharp criticism from both fans and analysts. This criticism often centers around his management style, specifically decisions about pitching rotations and bullpen use. Despite his previous achievements, including a World Series win in 2020, many fans still question Roberts’ postseason strategies, a narrative that Roberts’ family feels unfairly burdens him with sole responsibility for the Dodgers’ playoff outcomes.
Roberts’ wife reportedly finds it exasperating that the blame falls so heavily on him, rather than a broader look at organizational decisions. Critics argue that the Dodgers’ front office wields substantial influence over tactical choices, sometimes imposing data-driven approaches that can limit a manager’s autonomy. The organization’s focus on analytical decision-making shapes much of the strategic direction, and while this has led to regular-season success, it’s arguably been less effective in postseason contexts. Roberts’ defenders suggest that holding him entirely accountable ignores the reality that he operates within a system that, in some ways, restricts his managerial freedom, creating a tension between analytics and instinctual play-calling.
Family and supporters believe Roberts should not shoulder the blame for a system that doesn’t always align with the pressures of October baseball, especially when his role is partially defined by front-office directives. Many agree the responsibility for the Dodgers’ struggles should be more broadly shared among players and executives, as postseason success requires contributions across the entire organization
Roberts has maintained a remarkable record with the Dodgers, including leading them to multiple division titles and a World Series victory in 2020. Many in the Dodgers community, including fans and insiders, argue that the criticism he receives is disproportionate, pointing instead to broader issues in team construction and playoff performance. Friedman’s support for Roberts suggests a desire for continuity, attributing the team’s struggles to broader structural elements rather than individual fault
Despite this backing, it’s clear that the blame Roberts faces takes a toll on his family. They, along with supporters, are frustrated by what they see as a narrative that overlooks Roberts’s contributions and places undue pressure on him for outcomes shaped by multiple factors beyond his direct control. With his contract extending through 2025, Roberts and his family appear ready to weather the criticisms and continue working toward another championship, backed by the organization’s leadership and a loyal fan base that values his accomplishments over isolated playoff outcomes.
