While the Los Angeles Dodgers faced the Houston Astros the season after falling short in the 2017 World Series, Tuesday represented their first visit to Minute Maid Park since Game 5 three years ago.
More notably, however, was that it represented the first meeting between the two teams since MLB found the Astros guilty of electronically stealing signs en route to their title. The revelation brought about criticism from clubhouses throughout the sport, with the Dodgers among the more outspoken.
The series opener featured fireworks in the sixth inning as benches cleared due to Joe Kelly and Carlos Correa exchanging words. Roberts didn’t anticipate, he conceded that returning to Houston elicited memories of the Fall Classic that has since become tarnished.
“Coming into the ballpark, it brought up some memories. I think everybody is going to feel differently,” Roberts said. “I think when you get back to where all this stuff took place, it certainly takes you back a few years, but I still don’t think I need to address it with our guys. They’re doing a good job getting ready for the game.”
As for his feelings toward the Astros, Roberts shared a belief the Dodgers would have won the World Series if not for the impermissible behavior. “Probably not angry,” he said.
“I still believe the result of ’17 would have been different, but it’s hard for me to keep myself in that place because it’s not too helpful.”
Dodgers pull no punches
Roberts’ sentiment was similar to what multiple Dodgers previously shared. When addressing the matter in Spring Trianing, Cody Bellinger said the Astros “stole” a title from the Dodgers, and Jose Altuve robbed Aaron Judge of an American League MVP Award. That earned a sharp retort from Carlos Correa.
Justin Turner, while making it clear the Dodgers did not want to retroactively been given the trophy, reasoned the Astros no longer deserved to be considered champions.
But even as Dodgers voiced their frustration, it came with a common theme of needing to focus on the 2020 season.
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