The Los Angeles Dodgers opened the 2025 regular season at the Tokyo Dome without Mookie Betts in their lineup as he continues to deal with lingering effects from a stomach virus.
Betts had already fallen under the weather before the Dodgers left Arizona, but manager Dave Roberts said they received assurances from doctors that he could accompany them to Japan.
Betts missed the Dodgers’ first workout at the Tokyo Dome and labored through drills before their two exhibition games. That prompted Roberts to suggest it was possible, if not likely, that Betts would miss the Tokyo Series because of his diminished physical state.
He then confirmed as much during the Dodgers’ final off day in Tokyo and said the team was considering having their star shortstop return to Los Angeles early.
Roberts announced before the Opening Day game that Betts indeed had left the team.
“It just made the most sense for him to get back to a regular routine. That’s kind of where we’re at and we all support it,” Roberts explained.
Betts hasn’t played in a game since March 9, and Roberts previously stated the Dodgers were concerned with potentially risking a soft-tissue injury amid the sudden weight loss and dehydration.
It’s an obstacle that’s emerged for Betts heading into a season in which he is determined to prove being capable of playing shortstop.
Although Betts managed to participate in some drills over the weekend, he looked fatigued and at one point dropped down to one knee as Roberts spoke to him.
With Betts unavailable for the time being, the Dodgers are turning to Miguel Rojas at shortstop.
When will Mookie Betts return?
The Dodgers will play the exhibition Freeway Series from March 23-25, but it’s unclear if Betts is going to be available for any of those games.
Domestic Opening Day is scheduled for Thursday, March 27.
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!
