Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that star shortstop Mookie Betts was not with the team on Friday as they began a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox because of a death in his family. Roberts added that Betts was traveling to Fenway Park and would decide upon arrival whether he could participate, possibly as a pinch hitter on Saturday. This explained Betts Dodgers absence reason, which had been the subject of speculation following the Dodgers’ win earlier in the week.
Betts’ Arrival and Potential Return to Game Action
Roberts shared that Betts was expected to arrive around the first pitch of the game and that his availability would be determined then. The manager stressed the sensitive nature of the situation, explaining that Betts was dealing with personal matters but assured that everything was okay with him.
“There might be some things going on that he might not be around, that he’s got to deal with personally,” Roberts said. “Everything is okay with him, but yeah, we’ll see.” —Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
Sports journalist Bill Plunkett also relayed Roberts’ update, confirming the reason behind Betts’ absence and his travel plans to Fenway Park.
#Dodgers Dave Roberts said Mookie Betts is en route to Fenway Park. Should get here around first pitch. Will decide then if he’s available to pinch hit. Roberts confirmed Betts absence was related to death in his family —Bill Plunkett, Sportswriter
Challenges Faced by Betts During the Season
The 2025 season has been difficult for Betts, starting back in spring training when he suffered a stomach illness that caused significant weight loss of nearly 20 pounds. This ailment forced him to miss the final portion of the Cactus League games and cut short his stay in Japan before the Dodgers’ first two regular-season games began. Despite a strong early offensive performance, Betts’ batting numbers have declined considerably over the past month.
Betts’ Performance and Defensive Prowess
While his offense has struggled recently—hitting just .172 over his last 30 games with an OPS of .478—Betts remains a top defensive player. Among active shortstops, he ranks third in defensive runs saved, highlighting his continued value on that side of the field. In response to his offensive slump, Roberts shifted Betts to the leadoff spot to encourage more opportunities to get on base. Since moving up in the lineup, Betts has recorded three hits and two walks in 17 at-bats, showing some signs of adaptation.
Community Support and Future Outlook
The Dodgers organization and its community are rallying around Betts during this challenging personal time. The impact of his absence underscores his importance to the team both on and off the field. The hope remains that Betts will regain his usual offensive form soon, complementing his exceptional defense as the team navigates the season continuing through critical matchups like the one at Fenway Park.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Mookie Betts a billionaire?
A. Mookie Betts is expected to have a net worth of about $70 million in 2025. His financial decisions have been very successful.
Q. Which bone did Mookie Betts break?
A. Mookie Betts, the Dodgers’ shortstop, injured his left hand when a pitch hit him during the seventh inning of Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Royals.
Q. Who is Mookie Betts best friend?
A. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman perfectly embody what it means to be best friends. Their friendship is unique, especially among the Dodgers.
Q. Which bone did Mookie Betts fracture?
A. Betts will be out for a long time after a pitch hit his left hand and broke it. Manager Dave Roberts mentioned that surgery isn’t needed, and this injury won’t end his season. However, it’s unclear when he’ll come back. “He needs to rest and let his bones heal,” Roberts said.