Mookie Betts is facing a mysterious health issue that has kept him out of the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ opening games for the 2023 MLB season.
The 32-year-old star recently opened up about his ongoing struggles with a stomach ailment that has caused him to lose 25 pounds due to vomiting and an inability to eat.
Betts explained the situation in an interview with reporters at Dodger Stadium, revealing that his condition started nearly two weeks ago and has left him feeling drained.
“I’m not exactly sure what it is. I don’t think anybody really knows,” Betts shared.
“I weighed myself, and I was 150 lbs. When I left spring training, I was 175. My stomach is really aggravated, and it’s hard to just not eat, especially when you can’t come to work and not eat.”
Betts is finding it hard to fuel his body
The Dodgers‘ shortstop described the frustrating cycle of trying to fuel his body, only to end up vomiting every time.
“My body’s just kind of eating itself,” he said.
Despite this, Betts emphasized that he’s continuing to train but remains “scared to eat” because of how severe the symptoms have been.
Doctors have conducted tests, but everything has come back normal.
“My vitals, everything’s come back clean. Blood tests have come back really clean. I’m healthy,” he explained.
However, the root cause of his illness remains unclear. Betts has been placed on medication and is preparing for further testing to get to the bottom of his condition.
Although the health issue has been tough for Betts to handle, he’s determined to return to the field as soon as possible. He shared his frustrations about the situation.
“It’s just hard to fathom not eating and going to play a game. I’m just going to be light for a little bit, but I want to play.”
He admitted that he might start the season at a disadvantage physically, but his desire to get back in action is strong.
“I’m tired of sitting, tired of throwing up, tired of doing all this. I really just want to play.”
In addition to the weight loss and vomiting, Betts also explained that his current health problem is more frustrating than recovering from his broken hand last year.
“My body feels great. I’ve been able to work out. I can do pretty much everything but eat, which is strange. I just have to figure out how to get my stomach to calm down.”
Betts is staying hopeful that he’ll soon be able to get back on track and return to his usual form, despite the ongoing challenges with his health.
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