Dave Roberts’ answer was succinct but revealing. Asked Tuesday morning if, nearly a week into the exhibition season, he had gained any clarity on the Dodgers’ leadoff spot, the first-year manager said: “No.”
Roberts was a prototypical leadoff man when he played center field for the Dodgers from 2002-2004, a speedy slap hitter who worked counts and reached base at a .342 clip.
It is clear that the Dodgers, going on their second season without the speedy Dee Gordon at the top of their order, will not have a prototypical leadoff man -- or even a steady one -- this season.