From College Rivals to World Series Managers: The Story of Dave Roberts and Aaron Boone

For Boone, Roberts, WS matchup marks next chapter in lengthy rivalry

A Rivalry Rekindled: From College Foes to World Series Leaders

From College Rivals to World Series Managers

Some rivalries transcend time. Dave Roberts and Aaron Boone are two of baseball’s most recognizable managers today. Their competitive fire was first ignited on the college baseball fields of Los Angeles in 1992. As freshmen, they faced off in the spirited USC-UCLA rivalry. This rivalry shaped them as players and leaders. Eventually, it turned them into icons of Major League Baseball.

The Early Days: Bruins vs. Trojans

In 1992, Roberts and Boone weren’t household names. They were simply two young athletes fighting to make their mark. Roberts was the speedy leadoff hitter for the UCLA Bruins. Boone was the reliable third baseman for the USC Trojans. The games between their schools were electric. In one particular clash, the Bruins jumped out to a 7-1 lead. Then, the Trojans stormed back with a nine-run eighth inning to win 13-8.

The game was a microcosm of their rivalry. Roberts slapped a single to open the game but was later caught stealing third, with Boone making the tag. Boone, in turn, came through at the plate with a crucial RBI single in the eighth, sparking USC’s rally. Boone also showcased his defensive skills. He made a diving catch on a bunt early in the game. This prevented a double play.

“We weren’t friends,” Roberts said with a grin, reflecting on their college days. “I didn’t care much for him back then, and I don’t think he cared much for me either.”

The rivalry grew fierce over the years. Boone’s Trojans ultimately won 11 of 20 matchups during their college careers. Though they never reached the College World Series, the foundation for their future in baseball had already been laid.

Different Journeys, Same Destination

Boone’s path to the big leagues seemed almost inevitable. Aaron and his brother Bret grew up in a baseball family. They often accompanied their father, Bob Boone, to the ballpark during his 19-year MLB career. Those experiences, Boone said, instilled his lifelong love for the game. Boone was drafted in the third round by the Cincinnati Reds. He went on to have a solid playing career in the majors.

Roberts’ path was more of an underdog story. Undrafted until the 28th round in 1994, Roberts had to fight for every opportunity. Yet his tenacity paid off, as he played ten seasons in the majors, earning $23.6 million and making a name for himself as an elite base-stealer. His resilience showed the wisdom from Dodgers legend Maury Wills. “Anyone can do the safe thing, but it takes someone special to take a chance.”

Postseason Glory: Their Defining Moments

Roberts and Boone did not reach the College World Series. Both left indelible marks on baseball history during their professional careers. Each succeeded at the expense of the other’s team.

In 2003, Boone made a lasting impact on Yankee lore. He hit a walk-off home run. This was in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Boston Red Sox. This legendary moment propelled New York to the World Series. Boone would make fun of the moment later. He said, “What I want to know is, what are all these people doing in my dream?”

A year later, Roberts had his own legendary moment—this time for the Red Sox. Facing elimination in the 2004 ALCS, Roberts stole second base in the ninth inning of Game 4. This pivotal play sparked Boston’s improbable comeback. The Red Sox reversed an 0-3 series deficit. They beat the Yankees and won their first World Series title since 1918. Roberts’ steal remains one of the most iconic plays in postseason history.

From the Field to the Dugout

🤣 Funny: Former USC Star Aaron Boone Takes Shot at UCLA & friend Dave Roberts before World Series

After hanging up their cleats, Roberts and Boone transitioned into managing—eventually leading two of the sport’s most storied franchises. Roberts became the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, while Boone took the reins of the New York Yankees. Their college rivalry evolved into a professional one on baseball’s biggest stage.

Both have faced the pressures of leading teams with championship expectations, using the lessons they learned from their playing days. Boone’s natural leadership comes from growing up in a baseball family. Roberts’ resilience comes from years of overcoming long odds. These qualities have made them respected figures in the game.

Rivals, Forever Linked

Though decades have passed since that 1992 match-up, the spirit of competition between Roberts and Boone remains. Their journeys from college rivals to World Series managers show a unique blend of determination, talent, and respect.

Roberts once admitted with a laugh, “They got the best of us back then.” This experience only enhanced his distaste for the Trojans. Yet that same rivalry pushed both men to greatness—not just as players, but as leaders.

Now, from opposite dugouts, Roberts and Boone continue to write the latest chapter of their rivalry. This proves that some competitions never truly end. They just evolve.

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