Dodgers’ Mookie Betts Helping Max Muncy With Infield Defense
An unlikely teacher emerged in light of Max Muncy’s defensive struggles this season. Mookie Betts, who made the unprecedented transition from right field to shortstop, became an unexpected resource for Muncy in 2025.
More news: Dodgers’ Dave Roberts Hopes Game-Winner vs Mets is Turning Point in Michael Conforto’s Season
While Betts is a Gold Glove winner in the outfield, his offseason deep dive of working the infield has propelled the Dodgers star in his performance at shortstop. Betts ranks in the 90th percentile in Outs Above Average among qualified fielders, a testament to the hard work and athleticism of the 32-year-old.
It’s been anything but easy for Betts to become a Major League shortstop, but the adversity he faced has helped him work with Muncy on his own experience in the infield this season.
“I’ve been there,” Betts said. “I know what it feels like. I know what it’s like to be in a tough spot. … He has way more experience than me, but this offseason, I learned a lot. I really feel like mentally — I have to go out there and do it — but mentally, I really know what I’m doing. I know exactly what I’m doing. Know exactly what it’s supposed to look like. I know exactly what you’re supposed to do. And I can teach him. I really can teach him.”
Muncy committed his ninth error of the season Tuesday against the New York Mets. The following day he was taking ground balls from Dodgers infield coach Chris Woodward. Betts was standing behind the Dodgers third baseman observing his techniques.
“It’s just one of those things where everyone leads in their own way,” Muncy said. “This is how he leads. He tries to make guys better on the field. Some guys are better at leading in the clubhouse. Some guys are better at leading off the field. Some guys are better at leading on the field. This is one of the things that he excels at. He’s so good at making everyone else around him better because he’s always trying to spread the knowledge that he has.”
More news: Dodgers Make Roster Move Ahead of Friday’s Game vs Cardinals
Photo Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
Have you joined our Discord Channel yet? Be a part of the ultimate Dodgers Nation community and get VIP Nation Access! Don’t miss out on real-time Dodgers talk, call-in access to Dodgers Dougout, behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, giveaways, and more!
