Will the Dodgers fire Dave Roberts? What we know following shock seep elimination

The Dodgers’ four-game elimination left far more than just a loss. A team built to win the World Series with 100 regular-season victories and one of MLB’s highest payrolls — was swept by Milwaukee. They hit just 5-for-43 with runners in scoring position and blew a four-run lead in Game 4. The first consequence points directly at the coaching staff.

Is Dave Roberts’ job in danger?

The elimination has reopened debate about his future, but Roberts does not appear to be on the brink of being fired. He is under contract through 2029, earns more than $8 million per season, and has led the franchise to two consecutive titles.

That does not exempt him from a thorough evaluation. Pitching management, constant changes to the batting order, and the lack of answers against Milwaukee’s bullpen in Games 3 and 4 will be central topics in the internal review.

The most likely outcome is not a managerial change, but a restructuring of the coaching staff, adjustments to offensive strategy, and a redistribution of roles in the bullpen. The front office will have to explain how a roster designed to dominate ended up losing four straight games without any ability to respond.

Retaining Tarik Skubal is the immediate priority

The other major task will be resolving Skubal’s future. The Dodgers surrendered prospects Zyhir Hope, River Ryan, and Brady Smith to acquire the left-hander in August, but he is about to reach free agency. If they do not re-sign him, the deal will go down as an expensive two-month rental.

Skubal could command a contract worth more than $300 million, though he will not be the only pending decision. Miguel Rojas, Kiké Hernández, Evan Phillips, Alex Vesia, Brusdar Graterol, and others could also reach free agency.

A full rebuild is not expected, since the core of the team remains under contract, but a significant overhaul will be needed to address the shortcomings exposed in this Championship Series.

The Ohtani question

Added to all of this is Shohei Ohtani’s health. Discomfort in his left knee and right biceps prevented him from returning to the mound in the second half of the season. His recovery and the timeline for when he resumes his role as a pitcher will be decisive in planning the 2027 roster.