Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on August 9, 2026, that Tarik Skubal is unlike anyone he has managed, speaking ahead of Skubal's first appearance in a home Dodgers jersey at Dodger Stadium. "He's as different as anyone I've ever been around in this short period of time," Roberts said.
Roberts elaborated on what sets Skubal apart, pointing to his mentality and approach. "He's just built differently. The mind, the body, the focus, the humility, the teammate, the willingness to serve," he explained. Roberts noted he had a strong conversation with Skubal and sensed the pitcher is on a mission, having not yet won a championship. Roberts added that Skubal previously performed well in October despite missing much of the regular season, which gives him confidence for a similar postseason showing.
On the pitching plan, Roberts said Skubal would be given a slightly longer leash in his second start after his innings were closely managed in his first outing. "I feel, you know, give him a little bit more leash tonight," he said. Roberts also addressed Blake Snell's return start, saying the target is around 75 to 80 pitches with a goal of getting through five innings, after Snell threw 73 pitches in his prior outing, according to Roberts. He added that Skubal himself is progressing on a similar pitch-count plan, moving from four innings and 60 pitches toward five innings and 75 pitches, with a possible return within three starts, Roberts said.
Roberts also outlined bullpen moves, saying Jonathan Hernandez was designated for assignment by the Dodgers and Kyle Hurt was optioned, while Halverson and Barnes were added to protect bullpen innings. On catcher Will Smith, Roberts said he is pain-free and is expected to progress to hitting off coaches during the week. Roberts additionally praised Ben Work's return to the club after a difficult year that included multiple DFAs, calling it "seamless. He's great. A quirky guy, funny guy. Guys love him."
Turning to team performance, Roberts acknowledged the offense ranks fourth in baseball in runs scored but said the club needs greater urgency given its current standing as a wild card team amid a recent slump. "We're a wild card team right now and you know, we got to get going and play with urgency," he said. He also said the offense should take it personally that opponents throw them fastballs more than any team in baseball, adding, "that's bothersome," and stating the team needs to stop being bullied in that regard.