The Los Angeles Dodgers will kick off their season in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs without shortstop Mookie Betts, who is currently sidelined due to flu-like symptoms. Betts, 32, fell ill during the final week of spring camp and has been struggling with his health since the team’s departure for Japan. Dodgers manager Roberts confirmed that Betts will not be participating in the series.
“He’s been really sick, lost some weight, so we were trying to get him hydrated,” Roberts explained to reporters, as Betts missed both Saturday’s exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants and Sunday’s matchup with the Hanshin Tigers.
Betts, who is expected to play shortstop for the Dodgers this season, was unable to participate in workouts due to his illness. In his absence, Miguel Rojas is likely to fill in at shortstop, with other players like Tommy Edman, Enrique Hernández, and Chris Taylor also available as options.
Despite Betts’ setback, the Dodgers remain optimistic about his recovery and hope to have him back on the field soon. The team is closely monitoring his condition and will reevaluate his status for the upcoming games. Stay tuned for updates on Betts’ health and his potential return to the lineup.