The Los Angeles Dodgers went on a historic spending spree last offseason that saw them commit nearly $1.2 billion to bring in the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow, among others.
As a result of the high-profile additions, the Dodgers went into the 2024 season with enormous expectations. The team has become accustomed to World Series pressure in recent years due to regularly boasting one of the highest payrolls.
Manager Dave Roberts admitted heightened expectations the Dodgers annually face takes away some of the excitement for him, via Barry M. Bloom of Sportico:
“It takes the fun out of it a little bit,” Roberts said.
Since Guggenheim Baseball Management took ownership in 2012, the Dodgers have made 11 consecutive trips to the postseason while winning 10 National League West titles, three pennants and one World Series.
The club is on track to return to the playoffs this year as they entered Thursday with the best record in baseball. Whether that comes as an NL Wild Card team or division winner remains to be seen.
While Roberts isn’t a fan of the high expectations, he previously acknowledged they are an indication of the team’s recent success.
“I think, first and foremost, you said it is a privilege. I don’t think the expectation has changed,” Roberts said during this past offseason.
“I think that the roster has certainly been enhanced with some great talent and great people. But the goal is still been to win the World Series.”
Jack Flaherty among Dodgers embracing World Series expectations
Jack Flaherty is still relatively new to the Dodgers, having joined the team at the July 30 trade deadline, but he appreciates the expectations placed on the team. “It’s fun. You want those expectations,” Flaherty said.
“You want to be part of a team that has those expectations. That’s what I came up with in St. Louis, of expecting to win, wanting to win, and being a part of that. If they brought me in for that, hopefully I can contribute in as many ways as possible.”
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