Dodgers Announce Mookie Betts Update After Removal From Lineup

Despite Betts’ recent success, he was not included in the lineup for Monday’s series opener against the Cincinnati Reds.

Instead, utility infielder Alex Freeland drew the start up the middle, hitting ninth in the order. Betts was not the only regular out of the lineup, with catcher Will Smith also absent and Hunter Feduccia stepping in behind the plate.

However, for both Betts and Smith, this was always the plan. After Sunday’s game, manager Dave Roberts spoke with reporters and revealed that both players would be getting a maintenance day off, per Fredo Cervantes of The Sporting Tribune.

Betts, as an aging veteran, will get time off his feet as the Dodgers know how important he will be in October, especially playing the physically demanding position of shortstop. Smith is still fresh off the 60-day injured list recovering from a neck injury and also needs to be managed carefully.

Both players should still be available off the bench if needed. Los Angeles is going with a left-handed heavy lineup to face Reds ace Chase Burns, who is a right-hander. Once Burns is removed and Cincinnati brings in southpaws, Betts and Smith could both be called upon.