Dave Roberts did not take his decision to pull Rich Hill in the middle of a perfect game bid lightly.
Apparently fighting tears after his Dodgers shut out the Marlins 5-0 on Saturday, Roberts explained that he removed Hill after seven perfect innings because of concerns about the southpaw’s blister resurfacing.
Roberts said there was "heat" on Hill's finger, a sign of the blister resurfacing.
— Andy McCullough (@McCulloughTimes) September 11, 2016
Roberts also said that he made the decision to keep Hill from having a chance at history because he was more focused on the team’s long-term goal, which is to win the World Series.
Dave Roberts: "I feel sick to my stomach … opportunity of lifetime for Rich." "Made decision "to give us best chance to win World Series"
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) September 11, 2016
Roberts: "Nothing in my opinion is worth compromising our opportunity to win a championship"
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) September 11, 2016
Hill has made two trips to the DL this season and has missed multiple starts due to a blister, so there was definitely reason for Roberts to be concerned.
Hill has only made three starts for the Dodgers since being acquired by the team. He threw six innings in his first, was scratched from the second, and then threw six scoreless in his next start before the perfect game effort.
Roberts’ decision was not an easy one, but for a manager whose biggest priority is winning the World Series, it was a practical choice. And it’s the second time Roberts has done something similar, so we know he’s at least consistent.
