Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called out outfielder Michael Conforto following a critical missed RBI chance in the Dodgers’ 5-4 defeat to the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday. The game slipped away after Blake Treinen surrendered two home runs, overturning a two-run lead that the Dodgers had held for most of the contest. Conforto’s failure to capitalize during a bases-loaded, two-out at-bat in the bottom of the eighth inning added to the team‘s frustrations amid his ongoing Michael Conforto Dodgers struggles.
Details of the Game’s Turning Point
Trailing late in the game, the Dodgers tied the score in the eighth inning and loaded the bases with two outs, setting the stage for a pivotal at-bat by Conforto. After a 3-1 count, he faced a 96 mph fastball delivered right down the middle. Despite receiving an ideal pitch, Conforto popped out, failing to drive in the winning run and effectively ending the rally. This missed chance allowed the Blue Jays to regain momentum and ultimately secure the win.
Manager Dave Roberts’ Unfiltered Assessment
Roberts did not hold back in his evaluation of Conforto’s performance immediately after the game.
“I mean, you can’t ask for a better pitch,”
Roberts stated.
“(On) 3-1, you get a pitch that couldn’t be put on a tee much better. We’ve gotta move it forward.”
His comments underscored the disappointment with Conforto’s inability to deliver in a high-pressure situation, reflecting broader concerns with Conforto’s offensive production this season.
Reviewing Conforto’s Troubled Season
Conforto has faced significant challenges this year, batting just .191 with an on-base plus slugging line of .303/.334. With nine home runs and 25 RBIs over 366 plate appearances in 102 games, his numbers reveal a player struggling to contribute consistently at the major league level. Metrics such as a -0.4 WAR and a wRC+ of 84 further highlight the offensive difficulties he has experienced, marked by poor contact quality and diminished power output, which has also affected his defensive impact.
Roberts’ Confidence Mixed with Urgency for Improvement
Earlier in the summer, Roberts acknowledged the need for Conforto to enhance his performance, emphasizing the importance of progress as the season progresses. “It’s critical,” Roberts said of the need for improvement.
“I think that I’ve shown my faith in him and giving him opportunities. I do, like I’ve said, think he’s trending in the right direction.”
At the same time, Roberts stressed the importance of continuous improvement and adaptability as the Dodgers prepare for the trade deadline.
“We’re going to continue to look and figure out ways we can get better as a ballclub as we do get closer to the deadline. I hope that’s not in his kind of mindset. Just continue to get better each night. But it’s important for him to continue playing well.”
Implications for Conforto and the Dodgers Moving Forward
Conforto’s failure to extend the rally against the Blue Jays serves as a stark reminder of the challenges he faces during critical moments this season. As a 32-year-old player with a significant opportunity to contribute, he must begin to deliver more consistently in clutch situations for the Dodgers to maintain competitiveness. With the trade deadline approaching, the team’s ability to improve offensively will hinge in part on Conforto reversing his current trajectory and fulfilling the potential that prompted his continued playing time.