Dodgers Announce Mookie Betts Change at Spring Training

However, entering spring training this year, Betts does have something to prove at the plate. Last season, he took a noticeable step back offensively, posting a .258 batting average, .326 on‑base percentage, .732 OPS, 20 home runs and 82 RBIs across 150 games.

He improved slightly after the All‑Star break, but in the postseason he was not the offensive force he has been in years past. Even so, it appears he still has the full confidence of manager Dave Roberts.

On Wednesday, Roberts said he “likes” Betts hitting third in the lineup this season, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. It is a change from last year, when Betts primarily hit second.

Roberts added that outfielder Kyle Tucker and first basemanFreddie Freeman will likely hit second or fourth, though he has not yet decided on the exact order.

For Betts, having Roberts’ confidence is meaningful, especially after a season in which he never felt fully like himself. Before Opening Day last year, Betts dealt with an illness that caused him to lose significant weight, something he later admitted he never fully recovered from.

This spring, he is hopeful for a clean, uninterrupted ramp‑up. If Betts returns to form, the Dodgers lineup becomes even more dangerous than it already appears on paper. His ability to deliver in big moments has long been a defining part of Los Angeles’ identity.

With a healthier offseason behind him and a clear role ahead, Betts has a real opportunity to reestablish himself as one of the sport’s most complete players and help push the Dodgers toward a third consecutive championship.