LOS ANGELES, CA — Dave Roberts‘ journey to becoming the manager of the Dodgers was paved with significant milestones, including a brief stint as the interim manager of the San Diego Padres. In 2015, Roberts found himself unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight when long-time Padres manager Bud Black was fired midseason. Though Roberts’ time leading the Padres was short-lived, it played an important role in shaping his managerial career.
When the Padres dismissed Black in June 2015, the decision came after the team, despite being revamped with big-name acquisitions, struggled to rise above .500. Black, who had managed the Padres for nearly nine seasons, had failed to lead the team to the postseason, and the front office, under general manager A.J. Preller, felt a change was needed. Preller’s aggressive moves in the offseason, including trades for Matt Kemp, Wil Myers, and Justin Upton, coupled with the signing of pitcher James Shields, created high expectations. However, the team’s inconsistent performance left San Diego in third place in the National League West with a 32-33 record.
With Black gone, the Padres turned to Dave Roberts, then the team’s bench coach, to step in as interim manager for the series against the Oakland Athletics. Roberts, known even then for his affable personality and strong leadership skills, was highly respected within the organization. His connection to Black ran deep, having worked under him for several years and viewing him as a mentor…