The Los Angeles Dodgers were without Mookie Betts for their exhibition games against the Yomiuri Giants and Hanshin Tigers due to an illness that has kept him out of the lineup since March 9.
Betts took part in some drills before the Dodgers played the Tigers, which was an encouraging development considering he previously did not accompany the team for a workout at the Tokyo Dome.
“I was out there with him while he was taking ground balls and throwing it across the diamond,” manager Dave Roberts said of Betts.
“I think he took some swings in the cage. Really showed some fatigue, understandably so. We’ll see how he comes in tomorrow. He should be here for the workout, and try to do a little bit more to see where he’s at.”
While Betts is set to participate in another workout on Monday, his availability for the Tokyo Series remains in question.
“I think we’re really trying to be mindful of not just Opening Day, but not putting him in harm’s way in the sense of he hasn’t taken any live at-bats or played in games. And not to put him in a position where he potentially could get hurt,” Roberts explained.
Roberts noted that Betts could potentially play in the Tokyo Series if he continues improving. “I think No. 1, coming in, that he doesn’t feel signs of being overly taxed from today.
“Feeling strong and then to be able to go through an entire workout and not feel that same fatigue, would give us a chance. But anything outside of that, I just don’t think the training staff would feel good about that.”
Dodgers’ plans if Mookie Betts can’t play in Tokyo Series
If Betts isn’t able to play in the Tokyo Series, Miguel Rojas will likely take his place at shortstop. The 36-year-old started at the position in both of the Dodgers’ exhibition games.
Rojas previously noted that he is entering the 2025 season with the mindset of playing shortstop on a regular basis.
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