Will Mookie Betts Play for Dodgers in Tokyo Series? Dave Roberts Reveals Latest
Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts has been sidelined by an illness during the team’s trip to Japan, but manager Dave Roberts provided the latest update on his status for Opening Day.
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“I think that we’re really trying to be mindful of not just Opening Day, but not putting him in harm’s way,” Roberts said. “He hasn’t taken live at-bats or played in any games and not to put him in a position where he potentially could get hurt.”
Betts has not played in either exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants and Hanshin Tigers at the Tokyo Dome. He also missed the final two Cactus League games because of the illness.
While Roberts said there is still a chance of the Dodgers star competing against the Chicago Cubs on March 18, he sounded more pessimistic on Sunday.
Betts will go through a full workout Monday, and will have to meet certain requirements in order to make the Opening Day lineup.
“I think No. 1 … coming in that he doesn’t feel signs of being overly taxed today,” Roberts said. “Feeling strong tomorrow. And then tomorrow, to be able to go through an entire workout and not feel that same fatigue would give us a chance. But anything outside of that, I just don’t think the training staff would feel good about.”
Betts worked to transition from a right fielder to a shortstop throughout the offseason, which is already a tough task when 100 percent healthy. Thankfully, the Dodgers have plenty of options to choose as a replacement for Betts such as Miguel Rojas or Tommy Edman.
At this point, Betts’ status remains up in the air.
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Photo Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
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