Negotiations between the Los Angeles Dodgers and manager Dave Roberts are advancing, with a contract extension anticipated to establish a new benchmark for average annual managerial compensation. The Dodgers organization has been actively engaged in extension discussions with Roberts throughout spring training.
It is widely expected that the two-time World Series-winning manager will finalize a new agreement before the team departs on Wednesday for their season opener against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo. This timeline suggests a mutual desire to resolve the contract situation before the start of the regular season, allowing both parties to focus on the team’s performance.
Los Angeles Dodgers About To Make History With Dave Roberts Contract
Reports from The New York Post indicate that Roberts, currently in the final year of his three-year extension signed in late March 2022, is progressing in negotiations for a new contract. This development suggests a strong likelihood that Roberts’ new deal will exceed the $8 million annual value that Craig Counsell received from the Chicago Cubs after the 2023 season, a record-setting agreement that included a $40 million guarantee over five years. Notably, Roberts publicly praised Counsell’s deal, recognizing its potential to elevate the managerial market across baseball.
Since assuming the managerial role in 2016, Roberts has established himself as the most successful manager in terms of winning percentage, boasting a .627 record. Among active managers, only Bruce Bochy of the Texas Rangers has more postseason victories (57).
Roberts’ October success, which included securing his second World Series title, further solidified his Hall of Fame-caliber legacy. He adeptly navigated a Dodgers team plagued by injuries, particularly showcasing his strategic acumen during the NL Division Series against the San Diego Padres. Facing elimination, Roberts masterfully managed a bullpen game, igniting a run of 24 consecutive scoreless innings. This performance, along with the Dodgers’ championship victory with a depleted starting rotation, garnered praise from players and executives alike.
It’s noteworthy that two managers whom Roberts defeated during the postseason, Mike Shildt of the San Diego Padres and Aaron Boone of the New York Yankees, have subsequently signed contract extensions. This trend underscores the value placed on successful managers in today’s MLB landscape.