Dave Roberts: Biography, Salary, Health, and Japanese Heritage

Dave Roberts’ journey as a Japanese-born American baseball manager is defined by his heritage, resilience, and results. This profile explores his background, salary, health, and frequently asked questions.

Born: May 31, 1972 in Naha, Japan ·
Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) ·
Manager of: Los Angeles Dodgers (since 2016) ·
World Series titles (as manager): 1 (2020)

Key facts about Dave Roberts are summarized below.

Is Dave Roberts half Japanese?

Yes. Dave Roberts was born in Naha, Japan, to a Japanese mother and an African-American father. He holds U.S. citizenship and was raised in the United States. His multicultural background is a defining aspect of his identity.

What is Dave Roberts’ nationality?

Roberts is an American citizen. He was born in Japan but grew up in the U.S. and has represented the United States throughout his baseball career.

Does Dave Roberts speak Japanese?

Roberts has basic conversational ability in Japanese but is not fluent. He has spoken about his pride in his Japanese heritage and his efforts to connect with Japanese players and fans.

“I’m proud of my Japanese heritage and my African-American heritage. It has shaped how I lead and communicate.” – Dave Roberts, as reported by NBC News

Why did Dave Roberts change his name?

Dave Roberts did not change his name. His birth name is David Ray Roberts, and he goes by the common nickname “Dave.” The confusion may arise from a different Dave Roberts, a broadcaster, who might have changed his name. For the Dodgers manager, there is no documented name change.

How much does Dave Roberts earn a year?

Roberts signed a three-year contract extension in 2022 worth $15 million, averaging $5 million per year. In March 2025, he agreed to a new four-year extension worth $32.4 million, with an average annual value of $8.1 million, making him the highest-paid manager in Major League Baseball.

Who is the highest paid manager in MLB?

As of 2025, Dave Roberts holds that distinction with an average salary of $8.1 million per year, surpassing Craig Counsell and others.

How does Roberts’ salary compare to other managers?

Roberts’ new contract placed him above other top managers such as Craig Counsell (Chicago Cubs) and Bruce Bochy (Texas Rangers). The gap reflects his consistent success and long tenure with the Dodgers.

“Dave Roberts is the right leader for this team, and we are thrilled to have him under contract for the next four years.” – Andrew Friedman, Dodgers President of Baseball Operations, via Los Angeles Times

How is Dave Roberts’ health?

Roberts had a melanoma removed from his shoulder in 2015 and has been cancer-free since. He has occasionally missed games due to minor illnesses, but overall he maintains good health. The Dodgers have not reported any ongoing health concerns.

What health issues has Dave Roberts faced?

The most significant health issue was his melanoma diagnosis and surgery in 2015. He has since been an advocate for skin cancer awareness.

How does his health affect his managing?

Roberts has not missed extended time due to health since the melanoma removal. He manages a full 162-game schedule and remains active in the dugout.

What MLB teams did Dave Roberts play for?

Roberts played for five MLB teams during his career: the Cleveland Indians (1999-2000), Los Angeles Dodgers (2001-2002), Boston Red Sox (2003-2004), San Diego Padres (2005-2006), and San Francisco Giants (2007).

What was Dave Roberts’ playing career like?

Roberts was a speedy outfielder known for his base-stealing ability. He stole 38 bases in 2004 and played a key role in the Red Sox’ historic 2004 World Series run, highlighted by a stolen base in the ALCS.

What is his most memorable play?

His stolen base in Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS is legendary. The steal helped spark a comeback against the New York Yankees and ultimately led to the Red Sox’ first World Series title in 86 years.

Timeline

• 1972 – Born in Naha, Japan (NBC News)
• 1999 – MLB debut with Cleveland Indians (Wikipedia)
• 2004 – Stolen base in ALCS; won World Series with Boston Red Sox (NBC News)
• 2007 – Last MLB season with San Francisco Giants (Wikipedia)
• 2016 – Hired as manager of Los Angeles Dodgers (Los Angeles Times)
• 2020 – Won World Series as Dodgers manager (Los Angeles Times)
• 2022 – Signed three-year contract extension (Wikipedia)
• 2025 – Signed four-year, $32.4 million extension (Los Angeles Times)

Confirmed facts and uncertainties

Below is a summary of what is confirmed and what remains unclear about Dave Roberts.

• Confirmed: Born in Naha, Japan to Japanese mother and African-American father. Played for five MLB teams. Became Dodgers manager in 2016. Won 2020 World Series. Signed extension in 2022 worth $15 million. Had melanoma removed in 2015.
• Unclear: Exact salary figures beyond reported $5 million per year (2022 extension). Current health status beyond public statements. Whether he legally changed his name (no evidence). Degree of Japanese fluency.

Frequently Asked Questions