Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts will not play in the two-game Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs due to an illness that has persisted for the past week. The Dodgers will have to adjust their lineup without one of their biggest stars as they kick off the 2024 MLB season overseas.
Betts’ Health Struggles
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Monday that Betts is improving but has lost nearly 15 pounds due to the illness. He is still working on rehydration and regaining strength, making it too risky for him to play. The team is considering allowing Betts to return to the United States ahead of schedule to rest and prepare for the domestic season opener on March 27.
“He’s not going to play in these two games,” Roberts said. “When you’re dehydrated, that’s what opens a person up to soft tissue injuries. We’re very mindful of that.”
Betts began experiencing flu-like symptoms at the team’s spring training facility in Arizona just before they departed for Japan. Despite making the long flight, his recovery has been slower than expected. Roberts admitted that, in hindsight, Betts should have stayed behind instead of traveling.
“If we had known it would last this long, he wouldn’t have made the trip,” Roberts added. “We thought he’d be feeling better by now.”
Dodgers’ Plans Without Betts
With Betts unavailable, Miguel Rojas will start at shortstop for the Dodgers in both games against the Cubs at the Tokyo Dome. The series marks the official start of the MLB season, with the first game taking place on Tuesday and the second on Wednesday.
“Obviously, losing Mookie is tough,” Rojas said. “But I’m ready to step in and do whatever the team needs to win these games.”
Roberts emphasized the importance of keeping Betts sidelined, noting that dehydration could increase the risk of soft tissue injuries.
“It’s frustrating for him,” Roberts said. “He wanted to be out there with his teammates, but we have to take the long-term approach.”
Betts’ Role in 2024
This season, Betts is making a full-time transition to shortstop after spending most of his career as a right fielder and second baseman. The eight-time All-Star and 2018 AL MVP hit .289 with 19 home runs and 75 RBIs last season, playing a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
“He’s been working hard at shortstop all offseason,” Roberts said. “He’s excited about the challenge, and we know he’s going to be a big part of our success this year.”
While the Dodgers will miss Betts for the Tokyo Series, they remain confident he will be ready for the home opener and play a key role in their title defense.
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