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Mookie Betts’ Position Change Draws Curious Response From Padres All-Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Feb 24, 2025 12:11 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts is turning the clock back this spring.

The Boston Red Sox originally drafted Betts as a shortstop. However, he reached the majors as an outfielder, eventually becoming an All-Star and Gold Glove right fielder for the Red Sox and Dodgers.

Everything changed when Betts began seeing shortstop reps in 2023. The eight-time All-Star played 65 of his 116 games at short last year.

Betts is now a full-time shortstop, much to San Diego Padres standout Manny Machado’s confusion.

“I don’t know why he’d want to do that,” Machado admitted.

Machado isn’t exactly wrong. Betts committed nine errors in his time at short last year and exclusively played right field in the postseason.

“I don’t know, man, it’s crazy what he’s trying to do,” Machado told USA Today. ”He’s a Gold Glover. He’s such a good outfielder. Why go play such a demanding position? It takes so much of a toll on your body.”

Why, then, do he and the Dodgers believe he’s a good fit at shortstop? For one thing, Betts wants to play short, and the Dodgers have enough faith they’re willing to try it again.

Mookie Betts, future all-star shortstop. pic.twitter.com/jneBbzmP79
— Dodgers Tailgate (@DodgersTailgate) April 13, 2024

Betts said he worked with former Colorado Rockies star Troy Tulowitzki and Dodgers coach Chris Woodward this offseason. Both extensively played shortstop in the majors.

“When I was moved to right field, I believed in myself, and got pretty good out there,” Betts said.

“So, I’m taking the same concept,” he continued. “I got the opportunity now."

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

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