The Los Angeles Dodgers are in talks with manager Dave Roberts about a contract extension that could break records for manager salaries, as confirmed by a source to The Athletic on Thursday.
The Dodgers have been discussing an extension with Roberts since spring training began. He’s a two-time World Series champion and is expected to finalize a new deal before the team flies to Tokyo for their season opener against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday.
Initially, the New York Post reported that Roberts, who is currently in the last year of a three-year deal from March 2022, was moving forward in negotiations for a new contract.
Roberts’ new contract is likely to exceed the $8 million per year that Craig Counsell just received from the Chicago Cubs, which was part of a $40 million guarantee over five years. Counsel’s deal set a new standard for managers in Major League Baseball and Roberts praised its implications for the market.
Roberts has been leading the Dodgers since 2016 and has achieved a remarkable .627 winning percentage, the highest among active managers. He’s also seen considerable success in the postseason, with 57 playoff wins, only trailing Bruce Bochy. He made history last October, becoming one of only three active managers with multiple World Series titles, alongside Bochy and Terry Francona.
Last season, Roberts proved his skill by guiding a talent-rich Dodgers team that faced significant injuries. When the team was down 2-1 in the NL Division Series to the San Diego Padres, he brilliantly executed a bullpen game strategy, leading to 24 straight scoreless innings. This remarkable turnaround helped the Dodgers secure their second championship in five years. His management has earned him respect from players and executives alike, especially as he navigated a challenging season with limited pitching options.
As the Dodgers’ discussions with Roberts continue, it’s clear that his impact on the team and the game is significant, making him a strong candidate for a long-term commitment.
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