Manager Dave Roberts missed the Los Angeles Dodgers series finale against the Chicago White Sox on Sunday to attend his daughters graduation at Stanford. In the past, this decision would have been looked down upon, especially because the Dodgers lost 4-6 and dropped the series against the White Sox on Sunday. But Roberts explained how sports culture has evolved to allow him to prioritize important events with his family without judgment. I think thats one of the good things about the way the world has evolved, to where you do some things for mental health or your family, and its not frowned upon that you care less about your job, Roberts said, per the California Post. That should be applicable to everyone. Its good to feel like I can go, and I dont feel like Im being judged because Im going to celebrate my daughter.Jun 13, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) in the dugout before the game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesFreddie Freeman attended daughters birthEvolving sports culture has also benefited players like first baseman Freddie Freeman. The three-time World Series champion missed two games when he went on paternity leave to attend the birth of his daughter in April. You see it all around baseball, Roberts said. People are doing things for their family, and paternity leave, things like that. Its healthy.Los Angeles Dodgers Freddie Freeman smiles after hitting a 2-RBI double off Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher John Curtiss in the first inning during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale in Phoenix on March 10, 2025.Mental health is a priority for athletesOne of the biggest shifts in sports culture has involved mental health. Multiple athletes have started speaking up about the importance of prioritizing mental health in sports. Last season, Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia stepped away from the team during the World Series to deal with a family matter. Vesia later announced that his newborn daughter, Sterling, died on Oct. 26. Jun 7, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia (51) throws to the plate against the Los Angeles Angels during the fifth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn ImagesVesia was able to take time away from baseball during the most important games of the season to mourn the loss of his daughter and spend time with his wife and family. During spring training, Vesia expressed his gratitude for the support he received and advocated for people to prioritize their mental health.It hasnt been easy, but talking to someone, it has made a difference, Vesia said in February. For those out there whove lost a child or are fighting through any struggle, if you can take anything from this, please seek help. Talk to somebody. Its definitely helped Kay and I. Please dont be afraid to speak up. Your mental health matters.Ive learned that what has happened to us has also happened to so many families, and realizing that has deepened our empathy and our gratitude for this community. The baseball community is extremely strong.Photo Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesThe post Dave Roberts Grateful for Evolving Sports Culture After Attending Daughters Graduation appeared first on LA Sports Report.