Dodgers Make Unexpected Mookie Betts Decision After One Missed Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin M. Groe | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 2:13 PM ET

Shortstop Mookie Betts is in his sixth season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, having spent the first six years of his career with the Boston Red Sox before being traded to Los Angeles in 2020.

The 32-year-old veteran established himself as a superstar in Boston, making four All-Star teams, winning four Silver Slugger awards and earning four Gold Gloves. His peak came in 2018, when he captured the American League MVP and led Boston to a World Series championship.

In Los Angeles, he has experienced more postseason success—winning World Series titles in 2020 and 2024—while adding four more All-Star selections and finishing runner-up in NL MVP voting in 2023.

Over 1,471 career games, Betts has collected 1,700 hits, 282 home runs and posted an .884 OPS.

In 2025, Betts has endured the worst offensive season of his career, and as a result, he was benched yesterday by manager Dave Roberts.

On Sunday, ahead of the series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers, Betts was surprisingly placed in the leadoff spot for the first time this season.

Today’s #Dodgers lineup vs. Brewers: pic.twitter.com/zhIIKou1mO
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 20, 2025

In 90 games this year, he is batting .241 with a .688 OPS and 11 home runs—significantly lower numbers than his usual standards.

A couple of factors may explain Betts’s struggles. This is his first full season playing shortstop for Los Angeles after transitioning from the outfield last year to accommodate the team. He also battled a mysterious stomach illness before the season, which caused severe vomiting, an inability to eat and significant weight loss.

The Dodgers believe giving Betts more plate opportunities will help him regain his MVP form—and they’ll need that in a highly competitive NL West race.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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