Mookie Betts emerged from an inconsistent start to the regular season with a torrid month of May that saw him set or tie numerous Los Angeles Dodgers franchise records. He carried that momentum into the first four days of June but has recently been mired in a slump.
Betts snapped a string of three consecutive games without a hit by going 1-for-4 in the Dodgers’ 3-2 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Saturday. His single in the seventh inning loaded the bases, but it was an empty at-bat in the eighth that proved costly.
With the bases loaded and two outs, Betts had an opportunity to tie the game or give the Dodgers a lead with one swing of the bat. Giants relief pitcher Camilo Doval was struggling with control and could only locate — on occasion — his slider.
Doval nonetheless worked his way back from a 3-0 count to strike out Betts on a slider out of the zone. The 2018 American League MVP didn’t believe his at-bat quality was subpar and gave credit to Doval working out of trouble, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“It wasn’t a great at-bat. It wasn’t a bad at-bat. I just chased,” Betts said. “He made a good pitch. Got himself out of it. He drives a Benz too.”
Prior to getting Betts swinging, Doval also struck out Gavin Lux on a slider. The Dodgers left 14 on base and were 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position.
Betts is 2-for-22 with four strikeouts in his last five games.
Betts, Freeman developing close bond
As former MVP winners who faced lofty expectations on an individual level upon joining the Dodgers, Betts and Freeman have quickly developed a strong friendship. Along with connecting on the field, the two have grown close off it and travel together with their families.
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
