Mookie Betts will be the starting shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers for a second straight season, but this time both he and the team know that heading into Spring Training.
It is far from the ideal scenario but it is the best option at the Dodgers’ disposal to address the glaring hole at shortstop that has remained following Trea Turner’s exit in free agency. The Dodgers hoped Gavin Lux would be next in line, but he endured defensive struggles and his time with the Dodgers came to an end on Monday.
It took time for Betts to adjust to his new position in 2024, but he was ultimately a serviceable option at shortstop. Because of the caliber of player Betts is, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes it is easy to envision further improvement with a full offseason to work at the position.
“Where we are right now, and just to sort of echo where Gomer is at in the sense of what Mookie took on, sort of just really spontaneous last year. There was some good things,” Roberts recently said.
“Right now as the roster is, kind of where it’s at, continues to give us a lot of flexibility. It’s an easy bet to bet on him with the full offseason. Just feeling good right now where we’re at. Obviously there’s some things that can change, but all the confidence in Mookie.”
In 531.1 innings at shortstop, Betts had three defensive runs saved which puts him at slightly above average. With just the eye test he clearly got better as time went on, but Betts was not with his issues.
The most difficult types of balls to field remained an occasional issue, as well as getting the ball across the diamond. But Roberts expects Betts to continue growing in that regard with more experience and practice.
“I think that the footwork was fine. Getting to the baseball, catching it, securing it, good. It’s just the adjustment from the outfield, the longer stroke to the infield, the different arm angles led to some errant throws,” Roberts noted.
“Obviously Mookie is already early in his offseason work as far as already on the baseball diamond taking grounders and things like that with this anticipation.”
There is also the aspect of trying to preserve Betts’ health as he plays out the life of his Dodgers contract. In a perfect world, Betts would continue to be at second base like the Dodgers intended in 2024 but that doesn’t appear to be in their plans.
Mookie Betts focused on shortstop throws
Betts has displayed a talented arm during his time in the Majors, including some incredible throws during his time with the Dodgers. During his most recent Gold Glove season in 2022, Betts was tied for sixth among all outfielders in terms of outfield assists with eight.
It did not transfer over during his time at shortstop last season as Betts struggled with velocity as well as accuracy at times, but the Dodgers believe he can improve as he further adapts to the new way of moving his body in space.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
