Dodgers plan to make major change with Mookie Betts

Betts initially began the 2024 season as the team’s starting shortstop after a change midway through spring training. Betts had never played shortstop in the majors up to the point.

His move to a new position didn’t affect his offense. Betts hit .304 with 10 home runs and 40 RBI in 72 games. However, his defense at shortstop proved to be lackluster. By the middle of June, Betts was last in outs above average and fielding run-value among 24 qualified shortstops. He was also tied for the most throwing errors with eight.

Betts suffered a broken left hand after being hit by a 97.9 mph fastball on June 16. The injury kept him out for two months, and the plan was for him to return to shortstop. However, three days before he returned, it was announced that he would move back to right field, where he had won six Golden Glove awards.

Gomes did not specify if Betts would play shortstop or second base in 2025. With Tommy Edman and Miguel Rojas on the roster, the most likely spot for Betts to play is second base. That leaves Gavin Lux without a position, which means he could be a trade candidate.

Betts moving to second base also leaves a spot open in the outfield. That could leave the door open to re-signing Teoscar Hernandez. The Dodgers also can never be counted out of the Juan Soto sweepstakes.