How the Mookie Betts News Affects the Rest of the Dodgers’ Offseason
In non-free agency news, Dave Roberts had Dodgers fans in a stir when he announced that Mookie Betts would become the team’s full-time second baseman next year. This comes after a season where the team’s right fielder played 65 games at second base.
While not a major signing by the team, this news has major implications for the Dodgers moving forward. It greatly affects who the team targets in free agency and the trade market.
Mookie Betts Playing Full-Time Second Base Wasn’t a Complete Surprise
Usually when a player transitions from the outfield to the infield, or vice versa, they are trying to find their place defensively. However, this is far from the case with Betts. In 65 games last year at second, Betts slashed an elite .326/.422/.996 while grading out well above-average defensively.
Despite playing his entire career in right field, and earning six Gold Gloves, Betts has made it known that second base is his preferred position. Growing up he mostly played in the infield, but transitioned to the outfield in Boston because the Red Sox had someone named Dustin Pedroia already at second base — ever heard of him?.
Mookie says that playing in the infield is where he has the most fun. It keeps him engaged in the game, and he does not feel like he is on an island like in right field.
He also believes that playing second keeps him healthier throughout a long season. He stated that the run from the dugout is much shorter and it overall creates less wear and tear on his body.
Whatever the case may be, a healthy, happy, and engaged Mookie Betts over the course of 162 games can only benefit the ball club.
What Does Betts Playing Second Base Mean for the Dodgers Offseason Plans?
Overall, this is good news for the Dodgers. Positionally, the club has locked up the entire infield. Will Smith will be behind the dish, Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy will be at the corners, Gavin Lux will make his return at shortstop, and Mookie will play second.
This is also a boon for the club in the midst of a quiet offseason. This free-agency class does not have too many star infielders. Going even further, it does not have any “elite” second baseman.
Shohei Ohtani aside, with Betts moving to the infield, the front office can focus entirely on starting pitching and outfield bats. In particular, the club can look specifically at corner outfield spots.
Free Agent Outfield Options for LA
After a stellar rookie season, James Outman factors to continue to roam center field. The club also announced they are bringing back Jason Heyward on a one-year, $9 million deal. This allows Heyward and Chris Taylor to create a natural platoon for the team in right field.
The free agency market for outfielders is very top-heavy. While a reunion is unlikely, Cody Bellinger will earn the largest contract for an outfielder this offseason. After Bellinger, Teoscar Hernandez is a name that the Dodgers were linked to earlier in the year.
Rumors have also circulated that the team is interested in bringing back Joc Pederson. Although, Jason Heyward already being a lefty platoon bat complicates that scenario. Not to mention Pederson profiles better as a DH than he does as a left fielder.
The trade market does have some more exciting names in it. The general manager of the Chicago White Sox reiterated that they are open for business. This includes young star Luis Robert Jr. With the Dodgers already linked to Dylan Cease, a package deal could come about bringing Robert Jr. and Cease to LA.
Recently, the Rays have also started to take calls regarding electric outfielder Randy Arozarena. Similar to the White Sox, the team could be interested in a trade acquiring both Arozarena and RHP Tyler Glasnow.
The St. Louis Cardinals could also be persuaded to part ways with OF Tyler O’Neil. Injuries have definitely been an issue for him. However, he has flashed the talent that made him a top prospect. In 2021 he had an OPS of .912, hit 34 bombs, and earned his second Gold Glove.
Summary
Mookie Betts shifting to being a primary second baseman is an overall win. He gets to play his favorite position, and the Dodgers have the freedom to pursue anyone they want. This was never a matter of “if,” but just a matter of “when.”
It may have come sooner than everyone expected. However, no one will complain after watching Mookie make even more highlight-level plays around the diamond.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Mookie will be the best hitting second baseman since the old Ryne Sandburg and Joe Morgan days!
Hall of Fame here he comes!