The Los Angeles Dodgers just wrapped up a high-profile weekend series against the Mookie Betts and the Dodgers New York Yankees — and while they took two out of three games, one key player was noticeably missing from the lineup: Mookie Betts.
So what’s next for the eight-time All-Star and his role in the team moving forward?
Dodgers Win Without Betts, But Eyes Turn to His Return
Los Angeles managed to hold its own without Betts during the weekend showdown with the Yankees. The team came away with a strong 2-1 series win, proving their depth can carry them even when top talent is sidelined.
Still, fans are eager to see Betts back on the field. Manager Dave Roberts recently gave an update on the star outfielder’s condition, offering some encouraging signs.
According to Dodgers beat reporter Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register , Betts swung the bat in the batting cage before Sunday’s game — and did so without any restrictions.
“He did hit and he wasn’t compromised at all swinging the bat,” Roberts said.
That’s good news for a team that relies heavily on Betts’ leadership and production both offensively and defensively.
Day-to-Day Recovery, But Signs of Progress
Betts has been day-to-day since suffering a fractured toe earlier this month. He last appeared in a game on May 28 against the Cleveland Guardians and went just 2-for-14 across those contests.
Despite the lack of offensive fireworks, his presence alone gives the Dodgers a major boost.
Roberts shared that the team plans to reevaluate Betts on Tuesday, giving him another chance to prove he’s ready to return. In the meantime, Hyeseong Kim got the nod at shortstop Monday as the Mets rolled into Chavez Ravine.
While Miguel Rojas handled shortstop duties over the weekend, the plan seems to be shifting as the club braces for Betts’ potential comeback.
Did Betts Hint at a Return Soon?
There’s also been buzz around a possible return timeline. According to USA Today columnist Bob Nightengale, Betts himself hinted that he’s close to being back.
“Mookie Betts says he’s feeling better and expects to be back in the Dodgers lineup in the next couple of days,” Nightengale posted on X (formerly Twitter) Sunday.
Plunkett added that Betts’ foot has improved enough that he could now wear a shoe over it — a small but important step in his recovery process.
With June just around the corner, fans are hopeful that Betts will be back in uniform sooner rather than later.
What This Means for the Dodgers Going Forward
Losing a player like Betts for even a few days can disrupt a team’s rhythm. But the way the Dodgers have handled this stretch shows they’re built to weather short-term injuries.
Still, having Betts back will give the lineup a significant jolt. His ability to impact games with his bat, glove, and leadership makes him irreplaceable in the long run.
As the schedule heats up and the season moves toward its halfway point, getting Mookie Betts fully back in action will be a priority for Roberts and the front office.
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