**Los Angeles Dodgers Interim Coach Dave Roberts Has Saturated Team with His ‘1/11th’ Philosophy**
When Dave Roberts was thrust into the role of interim head coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers, many knew he would bring more than just managerial tactics to the table. Known for his calm demeanor and strong leadership, Roberts was already a beloved figure in the Dodgers’ clubhouse, but it was his unique “1/11th” philosophy that began to resonate with the players on a deeper level. Over time, this simple yet profound message began to permeate every aspect of the team’s culture, forging stronger bonds among players, and enhancing their commitment to the collective mission. What Roberts had tapped into was more than just a motivational slogan—it was a mindset that elevated the entire team.
### The Origin of “1/11th”
At its core, the “1/11th” concept is about individual responsibility within a greater collective effort. The phrase draws from a key belief Roberts has: no matter how many superstars a team may have, the success of the group is only as strong as the contribution of each individual. In this case, the number “11” represents the 11 players on the field at any given moment during a game—each of them integral to the team’s performance. The number is symbolic, representing the idea that each player, no matter their role, holds equal weight in shaping the outcome. This doesn’t diminish the importance of star players or key performances but instead reinforces that each action, no matter how small, contributes to the collective success.
For Roberts, the “1/11th” philosophy isn’t just about stats or metrics, it’s about fostering a culture where every player recognizes their unique value. By emphasizing the importance of each individual’s role, no matter how big or small, Roberts instills a sense of unity and shared purpose.
### Shifting the Focus to Teamwork
One of the hallmarks of Dave Roberts’ managerial style has been his ability to create a team-first mentality. He’s always been a strong advocate for the idea that success in baseball is never the result of one player’s heroics, but of a collective effort. Whether it’s a timely bunt, a well-placed single, or a sacrifice fly, every player has a job to do, and they all must execute to their highest ability for the team to thrive. The “1/11th” philosophy drives this point home with clarity.
In the high-pressure environment of professional baseball, where the spotlight often falls on the star players, it can be easy to lose sight of the team dynamic. By breaking it down into manageable pieces—”one-eleventh” of the whole—Roberts encourages his players to see their role as indispensable, yet interconnected.
“This game isn’t about one player doing everything,” Roberts often says. “It’s about all 11 guys doing their job, and when that happens, we win as a team.”
This emphasis on teamwork translates into every facet of the Dodgers’ play, whether it’s a timely defensive play, a base-running decision, or an unglamorous but crucial bullpen appearance. In this model, the coach himself isn’t just looking for flashes of brilliance from the likes of Mookie Betts or Freddie Freeman, but rather, consistency and collective effort. Everyone must contribute, because in the end, all 11 players on the field are part of the equation.
### A Mentality of Accountability
Roberts’ “1/11th” approach is also about holding each player accountable for their actions. The concept is built on the idea that every player has a specific responsibility, and that no player can shirk their duty without it affecting the whole team. In practice, this means that every individual’s effort is visible to the rest of the squad, and no one can hide when they fall short.
“It’s about doing your job, every day, and holding yourself accountable,” Roberts explains. “When everyone gives their ‘1/11th,’ the team becomes greater than the sum of its parts.”
What’s remarkable about the “1/11th” philosophy is its inclusivity. It’s not just about the starting nine on the field, but also the players who may not make the starting lineup every day. Bench players, role players, and bullpen arms are just as integral to the Dodgers’ success as the everyday stars. By emphasizing that everyone has a critical role to play, Roberts ensures that no player feels overlooked or underappreciated.
Take, for instance, the often-overlooked role of the bullpen. In many major league teams, relief pitchers can feel like secondary players, often coming in for short bursts of action. But under Roberts’ leadership, the Dodgers’ bullpen understands its importance. The idea that each pitcher is responsible for “1/11th” of the game, no matter the size of their role, creates an environment of mutual respect and high expectations. Every inning, every pitch, matters.
### A Philosophy that Fosters Trust
Another crucial aspect of the “1/11th” mentality is the trust it fosters among teammates. For Roberts, trust is a foundational element in creating a winning culture. When each player feels that they are contributing to the team’s success, they become more invested in the collective result. There is less room for individual egos or personal agendas. The ultimate goal is not personal glory, but team success.
By reinforcing the idea that each player is responsible for one “eleventh” of the outcome, Roberts encourages his players to focus on their part while trusting that the others will do the same. This builds a sense of camaraderie and accountability that permeates the locker room. The collective “we” mentality becomes more than just lip service—it is lived every day in the Dodgers’ clubhouse.
### The Impact on the Dodgers’ Season
The impact of this “1/11th” philosophy has been felt throughout the Dodgers’ 2024 season. From their early struggles to their eventual surge, Roberts’ message has been a stabilizing force in the clubhouse. The team, despite its occasional roster turnover and injuries, has consistently found ways to pull together and perform as a cohesive unit.
In a game like baseball, where failure is often more common than success, the “1/11th” mindset helps the Dodgers avoid finger-pointing or divisiveness. When a key player strikes out or makes an error, there’s no blame placed solely on that individual. Instead, the team rallies together, understanding that the journey to success is collective.
As the Dodgers approach the postseason, Roberts’ “1/11th” philosophy may very well be the key to their continued success. In the high-stakes environment of playoff baseball, where every pitch matters, having a team that understands its collective responsibility can make all the difference. It isn’t just about who gets the big hit or makes the game-winning play—it’s about the sum total of contributions, big and small, from every player on the roster.
### Conclusion
Dave Roberts’ “1/11th” philosophy is more than just a catchy saying. It’s a powerful mental framework that has transformed the Los Angeles Dodgers into a more unified, accountable, and cohesive team. By instilling this idea into the fabric of the team, Roberts has helped his players understand that every role is essential, every contribution matters, and success is achieved when everyone pulls in the same direction.
As the Dodgers continue to compete for championships, this philosophy may be one of the defining factors that drives their sustained success. Because when every player owns their “1/11th” of the responsibility, the possibilities for the team as a whole are limitless.
