Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
With the 2026 MLB All-Star Game now in the rearview mirror, the Los Angeles Dodgers shift their attention to the unofficial second half of the regular season.
The team is facing a difficult stretch right out of the gate with road series against the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets. Manager Dave Roberts wouldn’t want it any other way and was looking forward to resuming play on Friday.
“The schedule makers did it right,” Roberts said during an interview on MLB Network. “Out of the break we’ve got the Yankees. Then we’ve got the Phillies, so we come back here, and then we’ve got the Mets. So we’ve got our work cut out for us after the break.”
This weekend’s matchup is the Dodgers’ their first trip to Yankee Stadium since the clinching Game 5 of the 2024 World Series. While the Bronx Bombers have struggled lately due to several key injuries, they still lead the American League with a plus-91 run differential.
After the three-game set, the Dodgers make their way back to Citizens Bank Park for a series against the Phillies. Philadelphia got off to a rough start this season, but has been one of the better teams in the National League since Don Mattingly took over as interim manager in late April.
The Dodgers then conclude their road trip with three games against the Mets, who have been one of baseball’s most disappointing teams this season despite leading the league in total payroll. However, L.A. shouldn’t take them lightly as they still have a talented roster and one of the best home-field advantages.
Dave Roberts’ All-Star Game messages
Of the Dodgers’ six All-Star Game selections, Andy Pages and Justin Wrobleski stood out for being first-time participants.
Roberts, who led the NL team for the second consecutive year, encouraged both players to soak in the All-Star Game experience.
“I think the number one thing is they earned it,” Roberts answered when asked if he had any advice for Pages and Wrobleski. “I wanted to let them know that, to take it all in, to enjoy this moment. So much of our lives is about results and performing, and when you do perform and you get rewarded, you got to take time to appreciate it.
“If you don’t, you’re going to drive yourself mad. That was kind of the message.”
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