At 33 years of age, he has nothing left to prove, at least that’s the idea of any fan who has followed his career closely. However, Mookie Betts has shown his winning mentality, ambition and desire to succeed by confessing his new role with the Dodgers: to play as a shortstop.
Today, that decision shows why Mookie Betts is one of the most important players on the Los Angeles Dodgers, and in turn shows why they are once again one of the teams in contention for the title.
The unexpected change that redefined Mookie Betts
For years, Betts was synonymous with defensive excellence in right field, backed up by six Gold Gloves. However, the team needed adjustments and an unexpected opportunity arose.
The player himself recently admitted that accepting the change involved vulnerability and adaptation:
It’s everyone’s dream to play shortstop in the Major Leagues… I saw an opportunity to help the team and I decided to take on the challenge
The transition was not easy. Moving from the outfield to a position considered the defensive brain of the infield requires game reading, reaction speed and absolute precision. At 33 years of age, he has plenty of game reading and experience, but what is impressive is that he retains the reflexes and mobility of a young man.
In 2025, his advanced metrics ranked him in the 91st percentile in outs above average, a statistic that confirms his real impact on the position.
A different Spring Training for the Dodgers
The focus of preparation for the 2026 season also changed within the organization. Under the direction of manager Dave Roberts, the Dodgers adopted a more methodical plan during Spring Training.
Veterans such as Betts, Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy delayed their Cactus League debuts while they built up their fitness.
Part of that process included facing pitches from Japanese phenomenon Shohei Ohtani in intrasquad training at Camelback Ranch, a sign that the team prioritizes getting healthy and in competitive rhythm at the start of the season.
Roberts highlighted a major change in Betts: he now looks more relaxed and comfortable than in previous seasons.
Mookie Betts wants to finish his career as a shortstop
Far from considering the change as temporary, Betts envisions his future at shortstop and says the secret lies in constant physical preparation.
Beyond statistics or positions, Mookie Betts’ winning mentality represents what the Dodgers are today, a winning team that is not satisfied with what it has achieved and is going for more.
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