Update: Mookie Betts has been ruled out for the Tokyo Series, and the Dodgers are considering sending him back to LA early. Miguel Rojas will most likely start at Shortstop, but we will have an updated lineup before Opening Day.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have wrapped up their exhibition games and are now preparing for the opener of the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday.
Unfortunately, they may be without their starting shortstop, Mookie Betts.
Betts has been experiencing flu-like symptoms since the end of spring training that kept him out of the final games. He has made the trip to Tokyo but did not participate in either of the two exhibition games.
Manager Dave Roberts gave an update after today’s game against the Hanshin Tigers.
Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Gives Status Update On Mookie Betts
Betts did participate in some warmup drills before their Saturday game with the Yomiuri Giants and again before Sunday’s game but was noticeably fatigued during the light workout, according to Roberts.
Here's what Dave Roberts had to say when asked about Mookie Betts' status for Opening Day. pic.twitter.com/faR4opzcKx
— Dodger Blue (@DodgerBlue1958) March 16, 2025
The ultimate decision will likely come tomorrow, during the Dodgers’ off-day/practice schedule. If he does not show noticeable improvement, he will continue to rest and will miss opening day.
“We have to be mindful of not just opening day, but not putting him in harm’s way. In the sense of, he hasn’t taken live at-bats, or played in any games, and not to put him in a position where he could potentially get hurt.”
Manager Dave Roberts
Betts still has 24 hours to turn a corner, but at this point, it seems unlikely that he will play.
While he is one of the cornerstones of the team, Roberts has plenty of talented options if he is unable to go. Miguel Rojas could slide over to short, and then Enrique Hernandez could play 2nd. Roberts could also pull Tommy Edman from the outfield back to short, and Hernandez, James Outman, Chris Taylor, or Andy Pages could play center field.
The first pitch on Tuesday is at 7 PM JST (3 AM PST).
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