The Los Angeles Dodgers now have their backs against the wall after losing to the Milwaukee Brewers, 6-2, in Game 3 of the NLCS at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday.
The Dodgers failed to close out the Brewers despite leading in the early part of the seventh inning. Blake Snell gave up back-to-back home runs to Jake Bauers and Garrett Mitchell, practically dooming Los Angeles. The Dodgers are facing a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series for the first time since the 1966 World Series.
While Snell's blunders were costly, manager Dave Roberts could also be blamed for the defeat. Dodgers Nation's Nelson Espinal pointed out Roberts' “multiple questionable decisions.”
“Took out Andy Pages, one of the best hitters in the postseason. Pinch-hit for Josue De Paula before the Brewers made the pitching change, only to burn him for Kike Hernandez, who struck out,” wrote Espinal on X.
“Did not pinch-hit for a struggling Tommy Edman. Did not pull Blake Snell after a loss of command in the top of the seventh inning or after the two-run home run.”
Fans agreed that the 54-year-0ld Roberts mismanaged in Game 3.
“This team badly needs life. He has JDP there and doesn't even use him,” said @Letsget49613357.
“Questionable? The word is ‘moronic.' The worst managerial job by him since 2019. He lost the game in the 6th and 7th innings,” added @HawkeyeDodger.
“Right-versus-left, left-versus-right. That is the only thing on Roberts' mind,” claimed @wfbjHXoMEpYeBeh.
Article Continues Below“Agree! Dave, focus less on what the other manager does and more on what you're failing to do. You can't match his tactical moves. Trust your players and let them do their jobs. That's what has made the Dodgers successful all along,” suggested @tpof_japan.
“The biggest f***-up I've seen from him ever,” commented @ach_7189.
Roberts has led the Dodgers to three titles and five appearances in the World Series.
Los Angeles will try to stay alive in Game 4 on Thursday.