Roberts respects rival Murphy as NLCS managers mirror each other

Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts and Brewers manager Pat Murphy are set to face off in the 2026 National League Championship Series, marking an ironic reunion after their opposing roles with San Diego's chaotic 2015 season. In that year, Roberts managed a single game before being passed over for Murphy following Bud Black's dismissal; Murphy subsequently led Milwaukee to 103 wins this campaign while Roberts guides the Dodgers toward another championship. Despite competing against each other in high-stakes play, both managers express deep mutual respect and acknowledge their similar approaches to managing teams. Roberts noted that he enjoys watching Murphy from his dugout across the field during interactions with catchers, often mirroring Murphy's actions simply for fun rather than tactical necessity.