MLB REPORT: Dave Roberts Named Greatest of All Time in Baseball, Surpassing Legends from Rangers, Marlins, and Cubs

In a historic announcement that has lit up the baseball world, Dave Roberts — the legendary former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder and current manager — has been named the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in baseball by a prestigious MLB panel of historians, analysts, and fan votes. The selection places Roberts above celebrated figures from franchises such as the Texas Rangers, Miami Marlins, and Chicago Cubs.

The decision, part of a year-long “MLB Legacy Vote” conducted by Major League Baseball and several media partners, considered decades of performance, impact, leadership, and cultural significance. Fans and experts alike were stunned — and inspired — by the final outcome.

“Dave Roberts changed the game — both on the field and in the dugout,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “His story, his leadership, and his achievements speak volumes. This honor is more than earned — it’s historic.”

A Career Marked by Clutch Moments and Leadership

Roberts first rose to national prominence as a player in 2004 during his time with the Boston Red Sox, when he famously stole second base in Game 4 of the ALCS against the New York Yankees — a moment widely credited as the turning point that led to Boston breaking their 86-year World Series curse.

But it was his post-playing career that elevated him into legendary status. Since becoming the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016, Roberts has led the team to multiple postseason appearances, three World Series trips, and a World Series championship in 2020 — the team’s first in 32 years.

“He’s a player’s manager, a strategist, a motivator,” said Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw. “He knows when to push and when to trust. We wouldn’t be who we are without him.”

Roberts is also the first manager of Asian and African-American descent to win a World Series, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations in the sport.

Beating Out the Best

The final four contenders in the GOAT debate included legendary names from other iconic MLB teams:

• Nolan Ryan (Rangers) – The strikeout king and seven-time no-hitter phenom.

• Miguel Cabrera (Marlins) – A Triple Crown winner and one of the most feared hitters of the 21st century.

• Ernie Banks (Cubs) – “Mr. Cub,” the Hall of Famer known for his charisma and two MVP awards.

• Dave Roberts (Dodgers) – The underdog turned dynasty-builder.

The final vote — a combination of expert panel scores and over 1.2 million fan ballots — placed Roberts ahead in multiple key categories, including leadership impact, historical significance, and clutch performance.

Fans React to the Historic News

The reaction across social media was instant and passionate. Dodgers fans took to Twitter and Instagram to celebrate their manager, using hashtags like #GOATRoberts and #DaveTheGreat.

One viral post read:

“He stole second base. Then he stole the hearts of LA. Now he’s stolen the title of GOAT. What a story.”

Meanwhile, fans of other teams expressed a mix of admiration and debate, with some arguing the case for Ryan or Banks. But most agreed — Roberts’ contributions, especially in breaking cultural barriers and leading with dignity, made him a worthy recipient.

A Legacy Beyond Baseball

What truly separates Dave Roberts is that his legacy goes far beyond wins and trophies. A cancer survivor, Roberts has been active in charitable work, especially in raising awareness for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and supporting underserved youth through the Dodgers Foundation.

“He’s a champion in life, not just in baseball,” said sports analyst Hannah Storm. “And that’s what greatness really means.”

Roberts himself responded to the news with humility and gratitude.

“To be even mentioned alongside those legends is an honor,” he said during an interview at Dodger Stadium. “Baseball has given me so much — I just hope I’ve given back in a way that makes the game and the people better.”

What’s Next for the GOAT?

With his contract as Dodgers manager ongoing and a stacked roster for the 2025 season, Roberts is showing no signs of slowing down. Insiders believe he could add more championships — and even a Hall of Fame induction — to his ever-growing resume.

In a league that celebrates numbers, milestones, and moments, Dave Roberts now holds a title that transcends all: The Greatest of All Time.