Several Los Angeles Dodgers players have been unfiltered in discussing their anger with the Houston Astros cheating to win the 2017 World Series, which has further heightened the intensity in the regular-season meetings since the scandal was uncovered.
The latest chapter begins Tuesday when the Dodgers welcome the Astros to Dodger Stadium for the start of a two-game series. L.A. split a two-game set at Minute Maid Park in May, and seeing Houston again evoked more questions about potential added motivation because of their cheating.
“That’s really for those guys,” Betts said of Dodgers who were part of the 2017 club and still remain on the roster. I wasn’t here, so I don’t have the same emotions that these guys have. But I’m ready for war.
“I’m on the Dodgers, and no matter what my emotions are, I’ve got to ride with my team. We’re ready.”
For Betts, Tuesday will mark his second game off the 10-day injured list and a return to right field as he played second base in the series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 2018 American League MVP went 2-for-5 with a home run and walk, and didn’t appear inhibited by the right hip inflammation that affected him coming out of the All-Star break.
“That’s huge just for my mental. I haven’t played in a while, so being able to come back and do something is always a huge blessing,” Betts said. “Being able to have a game like today makes it that I’m ready for [Tuesday].”
Dodgers’ new look vs. Astros
Betts returning on Sunday gave the Dodgers a second player back form the IL over the span of a few days as Corey Seager was activated for the series opener at Chase Field. L.A. now more closely resembles what they envisioned heading into the season.
“I also think coming off an off day, the roster is going to be different in a great way,” manager Dave Roberts said. “The crowd is going to be energized, which we’re anticipating. We’ve got Walker (Buehler) going, and I know he’s going to be fired up. It’s going to be a fun homestand.”
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