dave roberts

Dave Roberts’ Strategic Shake-Up: How the Dodgers Manager Is Steering the Team Through World Series Pressure

The Los Angeles Dodgers are no strangers to the spotlight, but this year’s World Series has brought a new kind of intensity—one that hinges not just on star power, but on managerial decisions under fire. At the center of it all is Dave Roberts, the Dodgers’ skipper, whose recent lineup adjustments and leadership have sparked both buzz and debate across baseball circles.

With 5,000+ online mentions in just the past week, Roberts has become a trending name not just for his tactical moves, but for how he’s guiding a team through one of the most pivotal moments in modern MLB history. As the Dodgers prepare for Game 5 against the Toronto Blue Jays, every decision—from batting order to player substitutions—is under a microscope.

So what’s really going on? And why does it matter?

Let’s break down the verified facts, recent developments, and what this all means for the future of the franchise.

The Big Shift: What Dave Roberts Actually Did

On the eve of World Series Game 5, Dave Roberts made a bold move: he bumped Will Smith up to the No. 2 spot in the batting order—replacing the previously slotted Pages—and inserted Call as a starter in place of Pages.

This wasn’t just a minor tweak. In baseball, the No. 2 hitter is often the table-setter, responsible for getting on base and moving runners forward. Traditionally, that role goes to a high-contact, high-OBP (on-base percentage) player. Moving Smith—a power-hitting catcher—into that spot signals a shift in philosophy: aggression over patience.

According to MLB.com, the Dodgers’ official lineup change was confirmed hours before Game 5, with Roberts citing “matchup advantages” and “rhythm at the plate” as key reasons. Smith, who has been hitting .310 in the postseason with a .400 OBP, is clearly in a groove—and Roberts is betting that his hot bat can disrupt the Blue Jays’ pitching strategy early.

“We’re looking for someone who can extend at-bats and drive in runs when they’re on,” Roberts told reporters, as reported by MLB.com. “Will’s been seeing the ball well. We trust him in that spot.”

Meanwhile, the decision to start Call over Pages suggests Roberts is prioritizing defensive stability and recent performance. While Pages has shown flashes of brilliance, Call brings a stronger arm and better baserunning instincts—critical in a high-leverage series where every run counts.

Recent Updates: The Timeline of a High-Stakes Gamble

Here’s how the situation unfolded, based on verified reports from trusted sources:

October 27 – Pre-Game 4 Presser

Roberts remains tight-lipped about lineup changes, stating, “We’ll see where the game takes us.” But insiders note that Smith has been taking extra batting practice with hitting coach Robert Van Scoyoc, focusing on pitch recognition and timing.

October 28 – Game 4 Aftermath

The Dodgers lose Game 4 in extra innings, 6-5. Smith goes 2-for-5 with a double and an RBI. Pages, batting second, goes 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. Post-game, Roberts says the team needs “a spark.”

October 29 – Official Lineup Released

MLB.com and USA Today confirm the shake-up: Smith moves to No. 2, Call enters the lineup. The move is met with mixed reactions—some call it bold, others risky.

October 30 – Pre-Game 5 Media Session

Roberts doubles down: “We’re not chasing perfection. We’re chasing wins. If we can get two hits with runners in scoring position, that’s all we need.”

October 30 (Evening) – Freddie Freeman’s Leadership Moment

In a heartfelt pre-game interview covered by Yahoo Sports Canada, veteran first baseman Freddie Freeman shares advice with younger sluggers:

“Don’t try to be the hero. Just do your job. If you get a pitch to hit, drive it. If not, take your walk. We win as a team, not as individuals.”

Freeman, a 2021 World Series champion with the Braves, has become a quiet but powerful voice in the clubhouse. His message aligns with Roberts’ philosophy: discipline, not drama.

Why This Matters: The Context Behind the Moves

To understand the significance of Roberts’ decisions, you have to look at the bigger picture—both within the Dodgers organization and in the broader landscape of modern baseball.

Dave Roberts: The Architect of a Dynasty

Since taking over as manager in 2016, Roberts has led the Dodgers to three World Series appearances (2017, 2018, 2020) and one championship (2020). Known for his data-driven approach and calm demeanor, he’s built a reputation as one of the most innovative managers in the game.

But he’s also faced criticism. Some fans and analysts argue that Roberts is too reliant on analytics and too cautious in high-leverage moments. The 2017 and 2018 World Series losses were partly attributed to bullpen decisions that backfired—raising questions about his in-game adaptability.

This year, however, Roberts has shown a new edge. He’s willing to make unpopular calls, like benching slumping stars or reshuffling the batting order mid-series. That flexibility is now being put to the ultimate test.

The “Second Spot” Debate

The No. 2 hitter is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most strategic positions in baseball. In the past, teams used high-contact, low-power players (like Ichiro Suzuki or Luis Castillo) in that spot. But in recent years, the trend has shifted.

Teams like the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves have used power hitters in the No. 2 role to maximize run production. The idea: if a slugger gets on base, they can score from first on a double—or drive in the leadoff hitter with a single.

Roberts’ move with Smith fits this modern offensive model. It’s not just about getting on base—it’s about creating immediate scoring threats.

The Blue Jays’ Pitching Challenge

The Toronto Blue Jays boast one of the deepest rotations in the AL, led by Kevin Gausman and José Berríos. Both are known for their high-velocity fastballs and sharp breaking balls. Smith, who excels at hitting inside fastballs and laying off sliders, could be a perfect counter.

But there’s a risk: if Smith struggles against the Jays’ top arms, the Dodgers could lose their early momentum. That’s why Roberts’ decision to start Call—a more versatile, contact-oriented hitter—adds depth. If Smith fails, Call can reset the inning with a groundout or single.

Immediate Effects: How This Impacts the Game and Beyond

The ripple effects of Roberts’ lineup changes are already being felt—on the field, in the clubhouse, and across the fanbase.

On the Field: A Psychological Edge

By making a bold change, Roberts is signaling that no player is untouchable. This sends a message to the entire team: performance matters. It also puts pressure on the Blue Jays, who now have to adjust their scouting reports and bullpen usage.

If Smith gets a hit in his first at-bat, it could rattle the Jays’ starter and force them into early bullpen use—something the Dodgers want.

In the Dugout: Leadership in Action

Roberts isn’t just a strategist—he’s a culture builder. By listening to veterans like Freeman and empowering younger players like Call, he’s creating a **