As the manager of the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, Dave Roberts has the honor of overseeing the National League roster in the 2021 All-Star Game and deciding who will join his staff.
Washington Nationals Manager Dave Martinez, who led his club to a World Series championship in 2019, was not able to manage the 2020 All-Star Game after it was canceled due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Martinez said in an article for The Athletic that he would have loved to take part in the All-Star game with his staff this season, but he has not been extended any offer to do so.
Roberts confirmed he has not asked Martinez and said he felt Martinez was more disappointed that his entire staff didn’t get to participate the year after winning the World Series.
“I did get wind of that article that was written by The Athletic. I did ask him to be on my staff when we were here (for the 2018 All-Star Game) in D.C. I have so much respect for Davey and his staff,” Roberts said.
“As I read it, it was something he felt he would’ve liked to enjoy with his staff, which I completely understand. It certainly wasn’t a slight to Davey as a baseball manager or person I have the utmost respect for. … I think the whole point for Davey is he wanted to share that moment with his staff.”
Martinez and Roberts previously worked together in 2015 on the San Diego Padres coaching staff, where they developed a lot of respect for each other, and according to both of them, that hasn’t changed.
“To be quite honest, last year was a crazy year and very difficult year for everyone,” Roberts said. “There were concessions, losses and things that were missed out on for everyone. And far more greater than an All-Star Game. I know Davey understands that, so he and I are great as far as our relationship. It hasn’t changed.”
Bud Black joins Roberts’ All-Star Game staff
Roberts has already invited Colorado Rockies manager Bud Black to be part of his coaching staff, which is a customary move as the game will be played at Coors Field.
“Buddy is a hometown manager and there is a former baseball legend who is going to be an honorary coach who is going to be announced soon,” Roberts said.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and more!
