April 25, 2025 – In a bold statement that has sent shockwaves through the MLB community, Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton made a stunning declaration ahead of their upcoming series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. During a press conference earlier today, Shelton confidently proclaimed, “We’re going to beat the Dodgers like the Chicago Cubs did.” The remark, referencing the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory over the Dodgers en route to their championship, immediately drew attention—and a swift response from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
Shelton’s Bold Claim
Shelton’s comments came as the Pirates prepare to face the Dodgers in a three-game series at PNC Park starting tomorrow. The Pirates, who have shown signs of improvement this season with a 15-10 record, are looking to make a statement against the perennial powerhouse Dodgers, who currently lead the NL West with an 18-7 record.
“We’ve been playing good baseball, and I believe in this team,” Shelton said during the press conference. “The Dodgers are a great team, no doubt, but we’re coming for them. We’re going to beat them like the Chicago Cubs did in 2016—mark my words.” The 2016 Cubs famously defeated the Dodgers in the NLCS, overcoming a loaded Los Angeles squad to advance to the World Series, where they ended their 108-year championship drought.
Shelton’s confidence has raised eyebrows, given the Pirates’ historical struggles against the Dodgers. In their last 10 meetings, the Dodgers have dominated with an 8-2 record, including a sweep in their most recent series last season. However, Shelton’s Pirates have been bolstered by strong performances from young stars like Oneil Cruz and rookie pitcher Jared Jones, giving fans hope for an upset.
Dave Roberts Fires Back
It didn’t take long for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to respond. Speaking to reporters shortly after Shelton’s comments went viral, Roberts kept his response short but pointed. “I respect Derek, but talk is cheap,” Roberts said. “If the Pirates think they’re the 2016 Cubs, they’re in for a rude awakening. We’ll see them on the field.”
Roberts, who has led the Dodgers to a World Series title in 2020 and multiple deep playoff runs, is no stranger to handling pressure. His team boasts a formidable lineup with Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani, alongside a pitching staff anchored by Tyler Glasnow and rookie sensation Gavin Stone. The Dodgers are coming off a series win against the San Francisco Giants and appear poised to continue their dominance in the NL.
Fans and Analysts React
Shelton’s bold statement quickly ignited a firestorm on social media. Pirates fans rallied behind their manager, with one user posting on X, “Shelton’s got guts! Let’s back it up and take down the Dodgers!” Others, however, were skeptical, with a Dodgers fan replying, “The Pirates? Beating us like the Cubs did? Good luck with that.”
Analysts have also weighed in on the controversy. ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted, “Shelton’s comments are a risky move. The Pirates have talent, but the Dodgers are a juggernaut. If Pittsburgh can pull off an upset, it’ll be a huge momentum boost—but if they get swept, this quote will haunt them.” Meanwhile, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi added, “The Pirates are playing with a chip on their shoulder, and Shelton’s trying to fire up his team. But the Dodgers aren’t the type to let a challenge like this go unanswered.”
A Series to Watch
The upcoming Pirates-Dodgers series has now taken on added significance, with both teams looking to make a statement. For Pittsburgh, a series win could signal their arrival as a legitimate contender in the NL Central. For the Dodgers, it’s an opportunity to remind the league why they’ve been a dominant force for the better part of a decade.
The first pitch of the series is scheduled for tomorrow at 6:40 PM ET, with Jared Jones taking the mound for the Pirates against Tyler Glasnow for the Dodgers. Fans across the MLB world will be watching closely to see if Shelton’s bold prediction comes true—or if Roberts and the Dodgers will have the last laugh.
