Dodgers manager Dave Roberts won the NL Manager of the Year award on Tuesday. (John McCoy/Staff photographer)

Dave Roberts, who guided the Dodgers to 91 wins and a division title in his first season managing at any level, was named National League Manager of the Year on Tuesday. Roberts was listed first on 16 out of 30 ballots. The Baseball Writers’ Association of America voted on the award after the regular season.

Roberts’ own struggles on his journey to the big leagues helped him relate to his players, writes colleague Bill Plunkett.

Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon finished second to Roberts and was listed first on my ballot. Here’s why.