Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts appeared in Tokyo on November 19, 2025, for a press conference hosted by Kinoshita Group at the Prince Hotel, marking a rare public appearance in Japan outside the Major League Baseball season. The event drew broad domestic media attention, reflecting both Roberts’ standing as a World Series–winning manager and his continued relevance in Japan through cultural ties and the Dodgers’ growing Japanese player presence.
The press conference centered on the newly announced partnership between Roberts and Kinoshita Group, which company representatives described as a long-term collaboration grounded in leadership, credibility, and shared values rather than short-term promotion. Roberts framed the relationship within a broader discussion of responsibility and consistency, emphasizing that sustained performance, preparation, and trust form the foundation of leadership in both sports and business environments.
Speaking to a Japanese audience, Roberts noted that his approach to management prioritizes communication and long-term development over immediate results. His remarks closely aligned with themes commonly emphasized in Japanese corporate culture, including accountability, steady execution, and organizational stability. Kinoshita Group positioned the partnership as part of its broader brand narrative focused on human development and global perspective, underscoring alignment of philosophy rather than spectacle.
Roberts also addressed baseball-related topics that remain of strong interest in Japan, including expectations surrounding the Dodgers’ pursuit of a third consecutive World Series title. He avoided guarantees, instead stressing the difficulty of sustaining success at the Major League level and the importance of managing health, preparation, and performance over the course of a full season. He described repeat contention as a process built on discipline and continuity rather than assumptions.
On Shohei Ohtani, Roberts highlighted his influence both on and off the field, referencing his preparation, professionalism, and impact within the team environment. He characterized Ohtani as a player whose presence extends beyond statistical contribution, noting the leadership effect he brings to a clubhouse competing at the highest level.
Roberts also spoke about pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, describing his ongoing adjustment to Major League Baseball and his growing importance within the Dodgers’ pitching staff. He emphasized patience and development, noting that adaptation to the league is a critical phase for international players transitioning to MLB competition.
When asked about Roki Sasaki, Roberts acknowledged the significant attention surrounding the pitcher but remained cautious, declining to speculate on roster outcomes or timelines. He emphasized respect for player development and organizational decision-making, framing the topic within the Dodgers’ broader approach to long-term competitiveness.
The discussion extended to international competition, with Roberts confirming that the Dodgers support their Japanese players’ participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, subject to health and scheduling considerations. He described the WBC as an important platform for baseball’s global growth and said international tournaments strengthen cultural ties between Japan and the United States while raising the sport’s global profile.
Held in a formal corporate setting at the Prince Hotel, the press conference maintained a controlled tone typical of high-level business media events in Japan. Media questions focused on leadership philosophy, international engagement, and the responsibilities that accompany managing one of baseball’s most visible franchises.
Roberts’ appearance comes at a time when interest in Major League Baseball remains strong in Japan, driven by continued Japanese player participation and sustained coverage of the Dodgers. Framed through a corporate partnership rather than competition, the event highlighted the expanding role of sports leadership in broader business and cultural dialogue.
By balancing discussion of organizational values with on-field objectives and international cooperation, the Kinoshita Group press conference positioned Roberts as a figure whose influence extends beyond wins and losses, reflecting the evolving expectations placed on modern sports executives.
Official Links
Kinoshita Group (Official Website):
https://www.kinoshita-group.co.jp/
Los Angeles Dodgers (Official Website):
https://www.mlb.com/dodgers
Prince Hotels & Resorts (Official Website):
https://www.princehotels.com/
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