The Los Angeles Dodgers currently lead the league with a 56–32 record, but their defense has recently come under scrutiny, particularly with Mookie Betts’ move from right field to shortstop. Despite defensive lapses in right field by Teoscar Hernandez, manager Dave Roberts made it clear on July 4, 2025, that there are no plans to shift Betts back to the outfield, emphasizing the team’s commitment to its current lineup.
Roberts addressed the rumors during a post-game interview, stating,
“There is no thought of moving Mookie back out to the right field, and I do think that Teo is more natural in right.”
He reaffirmed that Hernandez remains the starting right fielder, while Betts is the designated shortstop, dispelling any speculation of a positional reshuffle despite Hernandez’s struggles.
Mookie Betts’ transition to shortstop remains the team’s priority
Before this season, Betts had an established reputation as a top-tier outfielder, even earning a Golden Glove. His shift to shortstop was intentional and carefully planned since November, involving extensive coaching and focused training to adapt to the new role. As of early July, Betts has appeared in 80 games at shortstop and recorded a .985 fielding percentage—slightly lower than his .995 from right field, but still respectable.
The Dodgers value Betts’ defensive potential in the infield, despite the inevitable adjustment period. Meanwhile, Hernandez, who was a strong right fielder last season, has faced difficulties this year with misreads and mishandling of crucial plays, some attributed by Roberts to a lingering hip injury. Roberts expressed confidence in Hernandez’s ability to improve, stating,
“He is more natural there, and there will be improvement.”
Defensive performance issues shake Dodgers’ depth on both sides
In June 2025, defensive errors became a pressing concern for the Dodgers. Max Muncy led the team with 10 mistakes, while Betts and Enrique Hernandez each committed four errors. Other players like Andy Pages and Hyeseong Kim also struggled defensively, creating imbalances in the team’s infield and outfield depth. The recurring question is whether the team should prioritize defensive reliability by moving Betts back to the outfield, but the coaching staff prefers to trust the current arrangement.
Betts silences critics with timely home run despite slump
Amid debates about his defensive assignment, Mookie Betts delivered an encouraging offensive statement. He hit his 10th home run of the season—a solo shot in the seventh inning against the Chicago White Sox—which helped the Dodgers secure a 6–2 victory. This homer was significant because Betts had been enduring a slump, going 0-12 in his previous three games with no home runs since early June.
Betts’ season stats, including a .246 batting average, .321 on-base percentage, and .383 slugging percentage, suggest he is enduring typical midseason challenges rather than collapsing. His ability to maintain plate discipline during this rough patch highlights his professionalism, as even the best hitters go through difficult stretches. The home run provided a boost of confidence both for Betts and the team, underlining his role as a dependable player during critical moments of the pennant race.
Despite ongoing questions about his defensive position and performance consistency, Betts’ timely power display offers reassurance to fans and management alike. His advanced hitting eye and occasional power flashes confirm that he remains a valuable asset to the Dodgers lineup.
The broader implications for the Dodgers’ pennant ambitions
The defensive challenges faced by the Dodgers highlight the complexities involved in balancing player strengths and weaknesses while remaining competitive at the highest level. Dave Roberts’ decision to keep Betts at shortstop despite Hernandez’s right field struggles reveals a commitment to long-term strategy over short-term fixes.
Maintaining Betts in the infield reflects the Dodgers’ belief in his adaptability and future defensive impact, while trusting that Hernandez will overcome his current challenges. This approach underscores how crucial every positional decision is during a tight pennant race, as defensive stability can be the difference-maker in the playoffs.
As the season progresses, it will be important to monitor both Betts’ continued development at shortstop and Hernandez’s recovery and improvement in right field. How the Dodgers navigate these defensive questions will have significant consequences for their postseason success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Mookie Betts a billionaire?
A. Mookie Betts has made wise financial decisions, leading to a net worth of about $70 million. He has also emerged as a top performer in Major League Baseball over the years.