Mookie Betts is undergoing a positional shift for the Los Angeles Dodgers, transitioning from second base to shortstop.
Initially slated to be the team’s regular second baseman, Betts made the move to shortstop for Friday night’s spring training game against Cincinnati. Manager Dave Roberts announced the change, labeling it “permanent, for now,” just 12 days before the season opener.
“We’re all on the same page here. We don’t care what happens, we just want to win,” Betts stated. “As for me, I don’t care. I genuinely do not care. I’ve said it a million times, I just want to win. … Put me wherever it doesn’t matter. As long as I’m on the diamond. I’m going to do the best I can do.”
Gavin Lux, expected to be the Dodgers’ shortstop, has faced defensive challenges, particularly with short-hop throws to first base. Consequently, the Dodgers moved Lux back to second base, where he has more experience.
“Just to make this move right now, it’s something that the entire organization feels is the right thing to do to give us the best chance to prevent runs and to win baseball games,” Roberts explained.
“I think that specific to Gavin, it allows him to get to the other side of the diamond. … So to get him back over there, shorten the throw, it should be less of a toll on his body overall and allow him to have success.”
Betts, who has excelled in various positions throughout his career, including right field and second base, expressed enthusiasm about the shift. Despite primarily being an outfielder, Betts has prior experience as a minor-league infielder in the Boston organization.
“I got drafted as a shortstop, so you imagine yourself playing shortstop in the big leagues,” Betts remarked. “That wasn’t the case, but it is now.”
Roberts disclosed that there was a discussion with Betts and Lux regarding the move. Both players approved the decision, with Betts showing eagerness for the new challenge.
“This is something that I know he didn’t expect, we didn’t expect, but he’s excited about it,” Roberts stated. “And there are times he is gonna kick to second base. And I was very clear that might be a possibility at times, but to wrap his head around shortstop.”
