Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts has temporarily departed spring training. The reason for his departure is a personal matter.
Family Matters for Betts
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Betts stepped away to be with his wife, Brianna Betts. The couple are expecting their third child.
Betts had previously revealed his wife’s pregnancy earlier this offseason. This led to his decision to decline participation in this year’s World Baseball Classic.
The couple already have a daughter, Kynlee Ivory Betts, born in November 2018, and a son, Kaj Lynn Betts, born in April 2023.
Betts Aims to Bounce Back
The Los Angeles Dodgers are aiming to win a third straight World Series title in 2026. Betts is among the players on the 40-man roster who will be looking to return to form.
Last season, Betts experienced a dip in his offensive production. He recorded a .258 batting average, .326 on-base percentage, .732 OPS, 20 home runs and 82 RBIs across 150 games.
Betts battled an illness that caused significant weight loss, which he never fully recovered from. This may partially explain the dip in his performance.
Despite the dip in offensive numbers, Betts had his best defensive season at shortstop. He even earned his first Gold Glove nomination at the position.
Spring Training Performance
Betts has appeared in five spring training games. He posted a .357 batting average with a .786 OPS.
Getting consistent reps now gives Betts the chance to rebuild strength, timing and rhythm before Opening Day. He is aiming to return to the level he has played at for more than a decade.
- Former MVP
- Eight-time All-Star
- Seven-time Silver Slugger
- MLB’s active leader in World Series rings with four
With his family growing and his legacy already secure, Betts still believes he can return to MVP form. He has seven seasons remaining on his 12-year, $365 million deal in Los Angeles, giving him plenty of time to chase more titles and add to a legendary career.