Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts might have revealed a little too much Tuesday about his team’s communication with prized free agent Shohei Ohtani.
The Dodgers are considered one of the finalists to land Ohtani as the Japanese two-way star searches for his next home.
Roberts was asked during a Tuesday media session about his team’s pursuit of Ohtani. The Dodgers skipper was completely candid and even confirmed that a meeting took place, which goes against the request for privacy Ohtani’s camp had previously asked for from teams.
Roberts said that he couldn’t lie to the reporters and that Ohtani was “clearly” the Dodgers’ “top priority.” The 51-year-old manager even sounded optimistic about the team’s meeting with Ohtani. More details on Roberts’ media session can be found here.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported later in the day that Roberts was “scolded by his bosses” for providing details on the Dodgers’ meeting with Ohtani.
Roberts reportedly received a “stern” text message the moment his media session ended. He was seen huddling with some members of the Dodgers’ public relations staff shortly after.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes and team president Andrew Friedman, who both had their media sessions after Roberts, refused to confirm a meeting with Ohtani even took place. Gomes acknowledged Roberts’ comments on the topic, but did not speak on the issue further.
Dodgers GM Gomes says they aren’t going to comment on Ohtani, acknowledged “Dave made a comment.” Asked by @Joelsherman1 if this has hurt their pursuit:
“I have no idea.” pic.twitter.com/dIw1nZDbvi
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) December 5, 2023
The rumored price tag on signing Ohtani is expected to reach a record-high in guaranteed money. The Dodgers are one of just a few teams — including the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, and Los Angeles Angels — still considered to be in the running for the reigning AL MVP.
