Glendale, Arizona – Dave Roberts and the Los Angeles Dodgers, the defending World Series champions, have reportedly reached a new agreement on a contract. Multiple reports indicate that the Dodgers and Roberts have finalized a four-year deal worth $32.4 million, extending his tenure with the team through 2029. If confirmed, this deal would make Roberts the highest-paid manager in terms of average salary, surpassing Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell’s previous five-year contract valued at over $40 million.
Roberts expressed his enthusiasm about the potential contract extension, stating, “I can’t talk much about it, but I do believe there is finally some resolution. I am thrilled. Los Angeles is where I want to be. Hopefully, there will be an official announcement soon. I am eagerly awaiting it.” The Dodgers are set to kick off their season against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 in Tokyo.
Approaching the final year of his current contract, Roberts is entering his 10th season with the Dodgers, consistently achieving at least 91 wins in a full-length season. With a winning percentage of .627%, he stands as the top-performing manager among his peers and has led the team to World Series victories in 2020 and 2024. Roberts, 52, has provided stability in a clubhouse filled with high-profile players and played a pivotal role in integrating players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki into the franchise.
Reflecting on his responsibilities beyond the game, Roberts remarked, “There are clearly important off-field aspects to consider. While I strive to maintain my focus on the players, the game, and the Dodgers organization, I understand that other elements are part of the job. I am looking forward to achieving closure.” Ohtani, who secured his third MVP award in 2024 by achieving a historic milestone of hitting at least 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases in a single season, credited Roberts for his support.
Before his managerial career, Roberts had a decade-long playing career in Major League Baseball from 1999 to 2008. As an outfielder, he spent a significant portion of his playing days with the Dodgers and contributed to the Boston Red Sox’s World Series victory in 2004. For more MLB news, visit AP MLB at https://apnews.com/mlb.
