At a time when the Los Angeles Dodgers were struggling, Dave Roberts did something he barely remembered doing in his first nine years as a manager: He organized an in-season meeting. The Dodgers were in disarray. Injuries were piling up, with the latest setback being Tyler Glasnow’s announcement that he would be sidelined for the rest of the year due to a sprained right elbow that prevented him from participating in a planned simulated game.
“I sensed there was a bit of uncertainty within the roster regarding our ability to secure 11 wins in October,” Roberts recently shared with The Athletic.
This meeting, which Roberts initiated to encourage the players to trust one another, led the Dodgers to look inward, prepare themselves for the critical games ahead, and adopt a fresh perspective on the postseason. While the organization is often viewed as having a top-down structure, with the front office making most decisions, it was actually the players who took charge of the team’s postseason strategies, organizing watch parties during the Division Series and opting for players-only bus and plane journeys.
The players believe that the time they’ve spent together has strengthened their bonds, bringing them just four wins away from clinching their first World Series title since 2020 and their first of a full season since 1988.
“We’re not allowing the organization to dictate our actions,” third baseman Max Muncy stated. “The players are asserting, ‘This is what we’re doing.’”
When Roberts gathered his team in Atlanta, the timing was crucial. The team had just come off a few losses, with Walker Buehler on the mound, becoming a more significant figure in the organization’s October strategy. The content of the message was even more vital.
“They realized without a doubt that this team had enough talent to win a championship,” Roberts remarked. “As a coach, I can support you all day long. But if you don’t have more belief in each other than I have in you, then it’s meaningless. It was a challenge to the group.”
The Dodgers embraced this message. To reach their ambitions, the motivation had to stem from the talent left in the room, especially after the organization experienced significant injuries. During an October where they made a comeback from a series deficit to eliminate the San Diego Padres in the National League Division Series, they also set a postseason record by scoring 46 runs to defeat the New York Mets and advance.
In their journey to the World Series, the Dodgers broke free from their recent postseason struggles, pushing closer than ever.
And they accomplished this on their terms.
What started as casual suggestions from players like Muncy, Mookie Betts, Will Smith, Miguel Rojas, Kiké Hernández, and others transformed into a new strategy for how the Dodgers approached October. Instead of relying solely on their previous methods, they aimed to replicate the environment of their 2020 championship run, where teams played in a protective bubble during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their primary focus shifted from merely winning to building camaraderie among the team.
“We’ve approached it the same way for so long, and we haven’t won anything,” Betts noted. “So, it was time for a change.”
Before beginning their five-day bye, plans started taking shape. Smith, Rojas, and Muncy each proposed fun ideas to strengthen team bonds during the break. In the initial two years of the postseason format, the organization experimented with various methods, ranging from simulated games to admitting season-ticket holders into the stadium. It felt very formal, with players showing up at the ballpark for a few hours but not truly engaging with one another as they would in regular season games.
“Everyone tends to stress out about the five days off when you have the bye,” Muncy explained. “In reality, it’s a reward. You earned the bye. We wanted to treat it that way.”
As a result, they organized players-only watch parties to find out their playoff matchups. They provided catered meals, which included chicken parmesan, pasta, and other delicacies from nearby restaurants. The Yaamava’ Dugout Club at Dodger Stadium was outfitted with ping-pong and pool tables. The primary goal was to foster togetherness among the team.
Muncy remarked that past playoff absences made it harder for players to shift back into a competitive mindset. However, this year, the Dodgers did not fixate on their upcoming challenges during the bye week.
“We didn’t discuss baseball,” Teoscar Hernández stated. “We didn’t bring up anything related to our jobs. We just had fun. Those who enjoy a drink did so; those who played cards engaged in games. It was about simple pleasures.”
“Just hanging out and having a nice evening was ideal,” Alex Vesia said. “It was perfect.”
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“The more time we spent together, the closer we became,” Muncy remarked. “We were already a tight-knit team, and now it feels like our bond is even stronger than before.”
This camaraderie extended into the postseason. Instead of traveling individually or with their families down Interstate 5 from Dodger Stadium to San Diego for the NLDS, the players arranged for a dedicated bus, making it mandatory for everyone to ride together. “It felt almost like a minor-league road trip,” Muncy added.
Upon their arrival, the players and coaches stayed in a hotel separate from the rest of the Dodgers staff.
As the team moved on to the NLCS against the Mets, they maintained the same principles. The players opted for a distinct flight to New York, separate from their families, and enjoyed team-only dinners while their spouses dined on their own.
This initiative was suggested by the Dodgers’ veteran players, who presented the idea to Roberts.
“I appreciate it because it leaves no room for excuses,” Roberts stated. “This is what you all desired. You communicate about it on your player thread. Is this what you want? Then it’s done.”
“In the past, players were the ones overseeing the clubhouses. It’s different now. When players invest themselves in the process and manage things, that’s when it’s most effective. That’s how it should be—always.”
Roberts presented the plan to the Dodgers’ management, including the business side. Although the additional expenses for hotels, buses, and flights were significant, they were swiftly approved.
“Our primary objective is to win as many games as possible,” club president Stan Kasten said. “To achieve that, we aim to create the best possible conditions for our players. If they propose reasonable ideas, we’re willing to spend a bit more to support them in reaching their goals.”
The approach was straightforward: eliminate distractions and cultivate an environment where players could remain closely connected at all times. Much like in the unique environment of 2020, the Dodgers found themselves in each other’s company for weeks.
The benefits were evident. Conversations during batting practice, as Betts noted, evolved beyond just baseball. Kiké Hernández referred to the bus ride to San Diego as “a party bus.” The team flight to New York was filled with upbeat music, while Shohei Ohtani enjoyed a good laugh over comics.
“Regardless of the outcomes, we’re going to experience this together as a team and as an organization,” Miguel Rojas stated.
“This is what sets this year apart from the previous two… simply hanging out and ensuring we stick together,” Freddie Freeman explained.
They have now reached this stage, just four wins shy of claiming the championship, even if it required sacrificing time with their families.
“I cherish my time with my family just like anyone else,” Betts shared. “But at this moment, we need to focus on being teammates—laughing, joking, and being together.”
(Illustration: Meech Robinson, The Athletic. Photos: Sean M. Haffey, Kevork Djansezian / Getty Image; Brian Rothmuller / Icon Sportswire)
Unity in Adversity: How the Dodgers Transformed Their October Approach to Reignite Championship Aspirations
The Dodgers’ October Journey: A Historical Perspective
The Los Angeles Dodgers have long been synonymous with baseball excellence. Their storied history includes numerous championships and legendary players. However, recent seasons have tested the team’s resilience, particularly in the high-pressure environment of October playoffs. This article explores how the Dodgers have adapted their approach during the postseason, focusing on the theme of unity in adversity.
Understanding the Shift in October Strategy
In prior years, the Dodgers faced significant hurdles, including injuries to key players and challenges with team chemistry. To combat these issues, the management initiated a strategic overhaul aimed at fostering unity and collaboration among players. Here are key elements of this transformation:
- Enhanced Team Communication: Open lines of communication have been established between players and coaching staff.
- Emphasis on Mental Resilience: Mental conditioning programs have been implemented to help players cope with the pressures of postseason play.
- Focus on Player Wellness: Managing player fatigue through strategic rest days has become a priority.
The Power of Team Chemistry
Team chemistry plays a pivotal role in a team’s success, especially in high-stakes situations. The Dodgers have realized the importance of fostering a supportive environment where players feel valued and connected. This shift not only enhances individual performance but also contributes to collective success on the field.
Building Stronger Bonds
The Dodgers have engaged in various team-building activities to strengthen relationships among players. These activities include:
- Group Outings: Participating in community service and social events.
- Off-field Training Camps: Organizing bonding trips that mix physical training with team-building exercises.
- Regular Meetings: Holding team meetings to discuss goals, challenges, and support systems.
Case Study: October 2022 Playoffs
The adjustments made by the Dodgers were put to the test during the October 2022 playoffs. Despite facing tough competition and injuries, the team’s newfound unity was evident. Key moments included:
| Game | Key Moment | Player Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Comeback Win | Mookie Betts hitting a crucial home run in the 9th inning |
| Game 3 | Pitching Dominance | Clayton Kershaw shutting out the opposition |
| Game 5 | Defensive Masterclass | Gavin Lux making a game-saving catch |
The Impact of Leadership
Leadership on and off the field has been vital for the Dodgers. Players like Justin Turner and Cody Bellinger have stepped up as leaders, guiding younger teammates and promoting a culture of encouragement. Their roles have been instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and commitment during the playoffs.
Benefits of Unity in Adversity
The Dodgers’ transformation has yielded numerous benefits, including:
- Improved Performance: Players are more motivated and perform better under pressure.
- Resilience in Challenges: The team can bounce back from setbacks more effectively.
- Enhanced Fan Engagement: A united team generates excitement and draws more fans to the ballpark.
Practical Tips for Cultivating Team Unity
Other teams looking to enhance their performance can learn from the Dodgers’ approach. Here are practical tips to cultivate unity:
- Encourage Open Communication: Create a culture where players feel comfortable sharing thoughts and feelings.
- Implement Team-Building Activities: Regularly schedule events that foster camaraderie and trust.
- Focus on Mental Health: Prioritize mental wellness through workshops and counseling resources.
- Incorporate Feedback Loops: Establish mechanisms for players to provide feedback on team dynamics.
First-Hand Experiences: Players Share Insights
Many Dodgers players have spoken about the positive changes within the team. Here are a few notable quotes:
Mookie Betts: “The support we give each other is what makes this team special. We’re not just teammates; we’re family.”
Clayton Kershaw: “Adversity can either break a team or make it stronger. I believe we’ve chosen the latter.”
The Road Ahead: Championship Aspirations
As the Dodgers continue to evolve, their focus remains on capturing another championship title. The lessons learned through unity in adversity will pave the way for future success. By harnessing the power of teamwork, communication, and resilience, the Dodgers aim to not only reignite their championship aspirations but also set a standard for other teams to follow.
Conclusion
While the Dodgers face fierce competition each October, their commitment to unity and adaptation has become their defining strength. Embracing adversity has not only transformed their approach but also reignited hope for championship glory. As they continue their pursuit, it is clear that unity in adversity is central to their strategy and success.
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