When the Los Angeles Dodgers played the Milwaukee Brewers in seven games over a 10-day stretch, manager Dave Roberts was asked if they could be considered a rivalry.
Between the two series with last year’s National League Championship Series opponent, Roberts was posed with the same proposition in regards to the Chicago Cubs. He was hesitant to label it as such, given the teams are not close in proximity, but allowed they could be considered rivals.
The Dodgers then faced an actual rival — San Francisco Giants — before traveling south for three games with the San Diego Padres. Once again, the topic of rivalries was broached with Roberts.
“The last four teams, five teams, same question. So I don’t know if people don’t like us or like to beat us, like to play us,” he said with a smirk. “I think geography lends itself to a rivalry. I definitely like seeing Petco Park full. They’ve got a heck of a ballclub, a lot of young talent and some veteran ballplayers.”
There certainly was a lively atmosphere throughout the weekend series, with much of the crowd there to support the Dodgers. Nevertheless, the signing of Manny Machado to a 10-year, $300 million contract and a talented farm system has given the Padres renewed optimism.
Historically speaking, games between L.A. and San Diego are often tightly contested. The same applies to fellow NL West opponents Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.
While it may pale in comparison to the acrimony from the Giants’ fanbase, those of the Diamondbacks, Padres and Rockies tend to have plenty of ire for the Dodgers. Roberts did identify Giants fans as producing the loudest ‘Beat L.A.’ chants.
But with respect to a rivalry existing with the Dodgers, Roberts largely rendered that a one-sided matter. “Speaking for our guys, we really don’t care who we play,” he said.
“So I don’t know if (facing the Padres) is a rivalry or not.”
