Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts admitted that he used the drama surrounding San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado as a "diversion" to rally his team during their NLDS matchup.
Dave Roberts' surprising admission has shed light on the behind-the-scenes tactics employed by the Los Angeles Dodgers during their hard-fought National League Division Series (NLDS) against the San Diego Padres.
Early in the series, Roberts accused Machado of throwing a baseball "directed at me with something behind it." However, the manager later revealed that his delayed reaction and subsequent accusation were part of a deliberate strategy.
Dave Roberts Admits Using Manny Machado Drama as a 'Diversion' for Dodgers
Roberts admitted that creating the Machado incident was intended as a "diversion" to take the pressure off his players and provide a rallying point for the team. The manager acknowledged his close relationship with Machado but emphasized that he believed the "diversion" was necessary.
The Dodgers had a disappointing performance in Game 2 of the series, losing 10-2 to the Padres in their own ballpark. Tensions rose between Machado and Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty, and debris was thrown at Padres players Jurickson Profar and Fernando Tatis Jr., leading to a delay in the game.
Dave Roberts Admits Using Manny Machado Drama as a 'Diversion' for Dodgers
Instead of confronting the Machado incident immediately after the game, Roberts waited until after the Dodgers' victory in Game 5 to reveal his plan. He explained that he wanted to avoid making the situation about himself and instead redirect the team's focus.
Roberts' strategy seemed to work as the Dodgers bounced back from their Game 2 loss, winning Game 4 on the road 8-0 and taking the series with a 2-0 victory in Game 5. Notably, the Padres failed to score a single run in their final 24 innings of the series.
Dave Roberts Admits Using Manny Machado Drama as a 'Diversion' for Dodgers
Despite Roberts' admission, the Dodgers' victory should not be solely attributed to the Machado diversion. The team played exceptionally well throughout the series, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The Dodgers will now face the New York Mets in the National League Championship Series, with Game 1 taking place at Dodger Stadium on Sunday night. Roberts' revelation about using the Machado incident as a "diversion" provides a glimpse into the complexities of managing a successful baseball team and the lengths to which some managers will go to motivate their players.
