/ STAFF WRITER
In spring 2002, Dave Roberts went to training camp with the Dodgers as a 29-year-old journeyman already in his third organization with eight minor league seasons and only 75 major league games in his past. But he emerged as the Dodgers’ primary center fielder and leadoff hitter.
Next spring, Roberts will be back in Dodger blue, this time as a rookie manager. In neither case was that the expected outcome.
The Dodgers made it official Monday, announcing the hiring of Roberts as their new manager. Roberts, 43, received a three-year contract (with an option for a fourth year) to follow Don Mattingly as Dodgers manager.