Dave Roberts Addresses Miguel Rojas’ Status After Personal Tragedy
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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the short-term outlook for veteran Miguel Rojas, who has suffered an enormous loss in his personal life.
Rojas’ father, Miguel “Mickey” Rojas Sr., passed away, according to the player’s announcement.
“With immense sorrow on behalf of the entire Rojas family, I must share with all those who had the privilege of knowing and spending time with my father, Miguel Rojas – known as ‘Micky’ – that he passed away suddenly yesterday afternoon, April 7th,” he wrote in an Instagram story in Spanish.
“I wish to offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has reached out to me and my family to express their affection and let us know just how deeply loved my father was throughout his life. May God welcome him into His glory, and may he rest in peace.”
Rojas was a late scratch on Tuesday as he was removed from the lineup before the game. He was set to play shortstop in the absence of Mookie Betts, but Hyeseong Kim slotted in for Rojas.
However, Rojas was inserted back into the lineup on Wednesday, marking a quick turnaround for the veteran who wanted to play, according to manager Dave Roberts.
“To feel like he can go out there and play in a big league ball game, whether it’s a distraction, doing it in honor of his father, whatever reason, I heard that,” Roberts said.
Miguel Rojas’ future beyond the Blue Jays series
Rojas, according to Roberts, will likely take a bereavement period later in the week, though no final decision has been made regarding his potential leave of absence.
Before the game against the Blue Jays, Rojas told David Vassegh that his father died of a sudden heart attack on Tuesday, April 7.
The funeral is taking place on Wednesday, which is customary. Rojas is not sure if he will leave after Wednesday’s game.
Rojas continues to be a valued member of the locker room, teaching players about how to carry themselves on the field and providing guidance based on his experience.
He has been a reason Mookie Betts’ defense at shortstop improved, and despite his age-related mobility, Rojas can still get it done as a defender himself.
With Betts’ absence, Rojas has become all the more important, though his off-the-field matters are understandably his top priority, and the team will grant him all the space needed during this period of mourning.
