Dave Roberts: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Dave Roberts is a well-known figure in Major League Baseball (MLB), having made his mark as both a player and a manager. He is best recognized for his exceptional speed on the basepaths and his leadership in guiding the Los Angeles Dodgers to multiple playoff appearances and a World Series title.
- Age: 52 years
- Date of Birth: May 31, 1972
- Birth Place: Naha, Okinawa, Japan
- Weight: 180 pounds (82 kg)
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Net Worth: $8 million
Early Life and Background
David Ray Roberts was born on May 31, 1972, in Naha, Okinawa, Japan. His father, Waymon Roberts, was an African American United States Marine stationed in Japan, and his mother, Eiko Roberts, was a native of Okinawa. Due to his father’s military service, Dave grew up in a multicultural household and moved frequently, living in various locations, including Okinawa, North Carolina, California, and Hawaii, before settling in San Diego, California.From an early age, Roberts displayed an aptitude for sports, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. He attended Rancho Buena Vista High School in Vista, California, where he became a standout athlete. Although he was offered scholarships to play football, he chose to focus on baseball, which turned out to be a pivotal decision in his career.
College Baseball Career
Roberts played college baseball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he was a left fielder for the Bruins. His speed made him a dominant base stealer, and he set the school’s record for stolen bases. His college career was successful enough to earn him a place in the UCLA Bruins’ Sports Hall of Fame in 2020.
Professional Playing Career
MLB Debut and Teams Played For
Roberts was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 28th round of the 1994 MLB Draft, but he didn’t make his major league debut until August 7, 1999, with the Cleveland Indians. Over the years, he played for multiple teams:
- Cleveland Indians (1999–2001) – Roberts developed a reputation as a reliable outfielder and excellent base stealer.
- Los Angeles Dodgers (2002–2004) – His speed and fielding ability made him a key player for the team.
- Boston Red Sox (2004) – Though he spent only part of a season with Boston, his stolen base in Game 4 of the 2004 American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Yankees is considered one of the most iconic moments in Red Sox history. This play helped the Red Sox break the “Curse of the Bambino” and win their first World Series in 86 years.
- San Diego Padres (2005–2006) – Roberts posted one of his best seasons, hitting .293 in 2006.
- San Francisco Giants (2007–2008) – He finished his playing career with the Giants before retiring in 2009.
Roberts played 10 seasons in MLB, recording a .266 batting average, 23 home runs, 243 stolen bases, and 213 RBIs.
Transition to Coaching and Managerial Career
San Diego Padres (2010–2015)
After retiring as a player, Roberts began his coaching career with the San Diego Padres. He worked as a special assistant in baseball operations before becoming the first base coach (2011–2013) and later the bench coach (2014–2015). His leadership skills made him a strong candidate for managerial roles.
Los Angeles Dodgers Manager (2016–Present)
On November 23, 2015, Roberts was named the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, making history as the first minority manager in franchise history. Under his leadership, the team achieved significant milestones:
- 2016: Led the Dodgers to the National League Championship Series (NLCS) and won the National League Manager of the Year Award.
- 2017: Guided the Dodgers to their first World Series appearance since 1988, though they lost to the Houston Astros.
- 2018: The Dodgers reached the World Series again but fell to the Boston Red Sox.
- 2020: Roberts led the Dodgers to their first World Series Championship in 32 years, cementing his legacy.
- 2024: The Dodgers secured another World Series title under his leadership.
As of 2024, Roberts has accumulated over 850 career wins as a manager, with a winning percentage above .600, making him one of the most successful active managers in MLB.
Family and Personal Life
Roberts is married to his high school sweetheart, Tricia Roberts. The couple has two children:
- Cole Roberts, who played college baseball at Loyola Marymount University.
- Emmy Roberts, who maintains a private life away from the spotlight.
Roberts is known for his charitable work and involvement in community programs. He has actively supported cancer research after surviving Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a battle he won in 2010.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2024, Dave Roberts’ estimated net worth is $15 million. His earnings come from:
- MLB salary as a player (over $20 million in career earnings)
- Managerial contracts with the Dodgers, including a 3-year extension worth $18 million in 2022
- Endorsements and investments
Roberts’ managerial success ensures that his financial standing continues to grow.
Conclusion
Dave Roberts has had an extraordinary career in baseball, from being an electrifying player to becoming a World Series-winning manager. His resilience, leadership, and dedication to the game have made him one of the most respected figures in MLB. With his continued success, he remains a significant influence in the sport and a role model for future generations.
