Dodgers’ Mookie Betts on Playing Shortstop: ‘It’s About Proving Myself Right’
Mookie Betts is sending a clear message this spring on playing shortstop.
“This is not like a vengeance tour,” Betts said to USA TODAY Sports. “It’s about proving a lot of people wrong. But more than anything, it’s about proving myself right.
“So many years, I just didn’t believe in myself.”
Betts has built an impressive resume as an eight-time All-Star, six-time Gold Glove winner, seven-time Silver Slugger, MVP, and batting champion. But what matters most to him? Winning three World Series titles.
Yet, all of the accolades aren’t enough.
The Los Angeles Dodgers moved Betts to the infield during spring training last year but he was supposed to play second base. After Gavin Lux struggled with making the throw across the diamond, the Dodgers switched the two.
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A hand injury derailed Betts’ regular season and when he returned to the lineup, the Dodgers put him back in right field.
This offseason, Betts took it upon himself to initiate the conversation about moving back to shortstop. Praise for playing shortstop isn’t what he is searching for. He was drafted as a shortstop but never made it through a full season before the Red Sox moved him to second base and then to right field.
“When I was moved to right field, I believed in myself, and got pretty good out there,” Betts said. “So, I’m taking the same concept. I got the opportunity now.
“And I’m going to make the best of it.”
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The difference between last spring and now is that Betts is prepared. He spent a few days working with Troy Tulowitzki in Texas. He went to Arizona to work with first base coach Chris Woodward and he spent time daily fielding ground balls at local high schools near his home in Los Angeles.
“I just feel so prepared now,” Betts said. “I can go home and sleep and not stare at video all day trying to figure things out. I’m giving it my all so I can lay my head down at night knowing that my work prepared me for any balls coming my way.”
Betts knows there are doubters out there who believe he belongs in the outfield but his message to them is simple.
“I know I can do this. I really do,” Betts said. “I’m excited to prove people wrong.”
Photo Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
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