At the start of Los Angeles Dodgers Spring Training every year, manager Dave Roberts gathers players, coaches, trainers, front office personnel and additional members of the organization in the clubhouse to deliver his first message of the new season.
On Monday that entailed raving about the Dodgers franchise, stressing a collective goal over individuality and imploring young players to learn from veterans who have set the standard. Roberts additionally preached consistency rather than attempting to rely on a “switch.”
Last spring Roberts evoked the memory of Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda, and he did so with Kobe Bryant in 2020.
Roberts’ message of putting the collective group ahead of individual interests rings true on a personal level as he has remained unconcerned about not yet signing a contract extension. He said last week such a deal was “really close” to being finalized.
“We care about winning, and we’re going to do it. Together.” pic.twitter.com/NM8Hoy776u
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) March 15, 2022
Roberts and the Dodgers are navigating abnormal circumstances for a second time in the past three years, as the MLB lockout delayed the start of 2022 Spring Training by one month. During that time Roberts couldn’t contact players, which was a drastic change from his usual process.
“I like to know what’s going on in their offseasons, so those were the kind of conversations,” Roberts said of his talks with players once a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) was ratified to end the lockout.
“And just making sure guys are healthy and ready to go. And the guys that weren’t totally ramped up, just kind of where they are at so we can make sure to pace them through Spring Training.”
Dodgers Spring Training workouts open to fans
The backfields at Camelback Ranch opened for daily public access this week, which allows fans the opportunity to watch Dodgers workouts and potentially obtain autographs. Admission to and parking at Camelback Ranch is free.
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