As one of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ most versatile stars, Mookie Betts was expected to shine in his new role as the team’s full-time shortstop.
As one of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ most versatile stars, Mookie Betts was expected to shine in his new role as the team’s full-time shortstop. But just as the 2025 MLB season was set to begin, Betts was blindsided by more than just a position change—he was battling a serious stomach illness that knocked him off course.
What initially appeared to be a short-term issue turned into a prolonged setback, costing Betts not only a spot in the team’s Tokyo Series but also around 20 pounds in weight. This sudden drop in physical condition deeply affected his ability to perform at the plate and in the field.
“Garbage” April: Betts Owns Up to His Struggles
Returning to action, Betts faced an uphill battle. His batting average for April plummeted to .230, far from the level fans and analysts are used to seeing. Looking back, Betts didn’t sugarcoat it, calling his performance “garbage.”
In comparing his situation to that of his teammate and global sensation Shohei Ohtani, Betts highlighted a key difference: power.
“I’m not Shohei,” Betts admitted. “I can’t, unfortunately, not have my A-swing that day but still run into something and \[have it] go over the fence or whatever. Even when I have my A-swing, if I don’t get it, it’s not gonna be a homer. If I don’t flush that ball in that gap, they’re gonna catch it.”
While Ohtani has the raw strength to send balls out of the park even on off days, Betts relies more on timing, precision, and sharp mechanics. Without his full strength and rhythm, his game was exposed.
Coach’s Take: “Mentally, It Was Challenging”
The Dodgers’ hitting coach Van Scoyoc also weighed in on Betts’ early-season difficulties:
“Mentally, it was challenging \[for him],” Scoyoc explained. “Just feeling like he didn’t get the benefits of all the hard work \[he put in during the offseason].”
The first part of this story: despite the adversities, Betts never let them define his season. He followed an extremely strict recovery schedule, working closely with his personal chef, trainer, and the Dodgers’ performance team to regain strength and sharpen his mechanics.
Rising Again: Betts Finds His Form
The advance in the developments showed in early May. Betts raised his average to .264 and hit five home runs with 21 RBIs as a return signal of his hard work. His defensive prowess improved dramatically at shortstop, confirming the Dodgers’ gut call to switch him from right field.
Two-Ways Flourishing: Spotlight on Ohtani
While Betts was clawing his way back to the others, Shohei Ohtani was always resting on his pedestal. His batting average was .296 with 10 home runs, 15 RBIs, and 1.006 OPS by early May, ready to return to pitching and increase his value to the Dodgers even more.
The Betts-Ohtani Nexus; Onset of the Dodgers’ 2025 Surge
The Betts-Ohtani synergy is starting to pay huge dividends. At 24-12, the Dodgers sit atop the NL West, with their dynamic duo leading the charge. While Betts brings defensive versatility and plate discipline, Ohtani continues to amaze with all-around brilliance.
Their mix of power, speed, craftiness, and mental toughness is creating a balanced lineup for the Dodgers to chase yet another World Series championship.
