Bruin Baseball alum and current L.A. Dodger Dave Roberts made one of the more valuable plays of his career in a classroom this January when he met with the students of the after-school program Team Prime Time (TPT) at Daniel Webster Middle School. Roberts, who plays center field for the Dodgers, is renown for his fleet base-running and slick defense. On this afternoon, the eager kids of Team Prime Time had another reason to remember him: good, honest advice.

"You might have people make fun of you if you don't give into peer pressure and do the right thing," he told his rapt audience of 11-14 year olds. "But I guarantee you this-you will have their respect as a person."

After addressing the group, Roberts, who said he would be involved in coaching kids if he wasn't heading the Dodger batting order, clearly enjoyed fielding questions about everything from old school rap to his personal heroes. The Q&A also touched on the importance of tending to the books to make sure not to sacrifice a chance to realize your dreams, however wild they might be. Take it from a 23rd round draft pick.

Roberts, accompanied by another Bruin Baseball Alum and Coach, Robert Hinds, also commended the group on their involvement in Team Prime Time, an innovative after-school program for at-risk middle school students built around comprehensive academic, athletic, and leadership components.

TPT Executive Director Peter Straus, was thoroughly impressed by the interaction. "Our kids were drawn to his enthusiasm and sincerity," he said, "They understand how hard he worked to get where he is, and will be reminded every time they watch him on T.V."