After World Series win, Dodgers’ Dave Roberts makes emotional return to Japan
Dodgers' Dave Roberts, who was born in Naha on Japan’s island of Okinawa, returned to his hometown to accept an honorary award from the city last week after his World Series win.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts finished off an epic year with a proverbial grand slam.
Roberts, who was born in Naha on Japan’s island of Okinawa, returned to his hometown to accept an honorary award from the city last week after his team won the World Series against the New York Yankees in October. The emotional visit, Roberts’ first in more than two decades, was the ultimate capstone to his championship season, he said.
“Winning the World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers, for the city of Los Angeles, was incredible, an incredible challenge. But the final piece for me was to come to Naha, to be with my people and celebrate with you guys together,” Roberts said during the ceremony. “So now, my journey for 2024 is finally complete.”
Roberts, whose mother is Japanese and father was a U.S. Marine stationed in Okinawa, accepted the award in front of hundreds of locals, officials and fans. Naha’s mayor, Satoru Chinen, said during the ceremony that the skipper inspired Okinawans to be proud of who they are. Roberts also reiterated his pride for his hometown.
“I was born in Naha,” Roberts said. “I have Okinawan blood and Okinawa will always be home for me.”
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