The Los Angeles Dodgers have one of the most star-studded collections of players in their everyday lineup, all of whom are needed to make a deep postseason run.
Mookie Betts missed 45 games with a fractured left hand before he was activated on Aug. 12. The 31-year-old has been solid since returning and recently delivered a game-winning home run for the Dodgers.
When Betts did return, he did so back in right field and hitting behind the Dodgers’ new leadoff hitter, Shohei Ohtani.
Betts expressed some frustration in a self-assessment of having varying results since returning but shifted the focus to helping Ohtani by any means help lead the Dodgers, via SportsNet LA:
“I don’t know. I feel like I’ve been very inconsistent. I don’t know. I’m just here to win, here to do what I can to help Shohei carry us to the finish line.”
The Dodgers are 11-5 since Betts returned, which was the start of a wave of reinforcements for the lineup. That grew to include Max Muncy and Tommy Edman, which has helped offset Freddie Freeman’s recent struggles.
Mookie Betts helping aid Shohei Ohtani
Because of Ohtani’s ability to change a game with one swing, the impact he has on pitchers’ approach, and in 2024 with his legs, the Dodgers should be all-in to keep pace.
Betts has stated he’s up for the challenge, because while he was out, Ohtani had to carry much of the load. The lineup change has Betts often in position to drive in Ohtani and make life even more difficult on opposing pitchers.
Furthermore, in shifting back to right field, Betts has provided needed production for the Dodgers’ group of outfielders.
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