The Los Angeles Dodgers, currently holding a 65-48 record in a tight battle for the NL West title, are grappling with offensive struggles that have put Mookie Betts’ future with the team into question. As they face a crucial series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts must decide how to handle the lineup amid mounting playoff pressure and Betts’ alarming slump.
Injuries combined with underperformance from key players have worsened the Dodgers’ scoring problems, raising doubts about whether relying on Betts at the heart of their lineup endangers their postseason chances. The team’s offensive output has dipped significantly at a pivotal moment in the season.
Betts’ Slump Marks Career Low, Testing Dodgers’ Patience
Mookie Betts has fallen into the worst stretch of his professional career, hitting just .149 with a .413 OPS over his last 19 games, a sharp drop from his overall 2025 slash line of .231/.302/.355 with 11 home runs. His recent 0-for-4 performance against the Cardinals highlights the depth of his struggles at the plate.
Despite this slide, Roberts remains reluctant to move Betts down in the batting order. After shifting him from the leadoff spot to batting second on August 3, Roberts voiced continued confidence in Betts.
“I’m going to continue to believe in him and trust that he’s the best option,”
Roberts said in a conversation with FOX Sports reporter Rowan Kavner.
“I’m going to continue to believe in him and trust that he’s the best option.” — Rowan Kavner, FOX Sports Reporter
The manager’s commitment is notable given Betts’ current production, which falls below expectations despite maintaining a strong plate discipline reflected in an 11.1% strikeout rate. Roberts admitted considering deeper lineup changes but decided against them for now, stating to ESPN’s Alden González,
“I thought about it… I’m just trying to figure out what would be best for him, for the team… But not right now.”
“I thought about it… I’m just trying to figure out what would be best for him, for the team… But not right now.” — Alden González, ESPN Reporter
The scarcity of better alternatives in the lineup also factors into Roberts’ decisions, especially with inconsistent playing time for catcher Will Smith.
“If you don’t have a better alternative, then it falls on deaf ears,”
Roberts explained.
“If you don’t have a better alternative, then it falls on deaf ears.” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
Dodgers’ Offensive Struggles Extend Beyond Betts
The Dodgers’ offensive woes have affected several players aside from Betts. Since star first baseman Max Muncy’s injury on July 3, the team has posted a disappointing .225 batting average and .665 OPS. Outfielders Teoscar Hernández and prospect Andy Pages have also struggled over the last 20 games, compounding the team’s scoring drought.
These issues have contributed to the Dodgers ranking third-worst in runs scored during July, a worrying trend as they face stiff competition from rival teams like the San Diego Padres in the NL West standings.
Betts’ Defensive Value and Health Concerns Amid Slump
While Betts’ bat has cooled, his defensive contributions remain strong. Playing shortstop, he ranks in the 72nd percentile for Outs Above Average and has recorded six Defensive Runs Saved this season. However, an unusual illness early in 2025 led to significant weight loss for Betts, which may be a factor in his offensive decline.
Urgency Builds as Dodgers Aim to Stabilize Offense Against Cardinals
As the Dodgers drop games to the Cardinals, the pressure mounts for Betts to recover his form quickly. The team’s narrow lead over the Padres in the division standings means that any continued offensive slump could cost them a postseason berth. With more of the offensive burden now on Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers’ October hopes hinge on Betts’ ability to rebound.
Roberts’ unwavering faith in Betts’ skillset, especially his plate discipline and previous achievements, faces a stern test in the upcoming games. A turnaround against St. Louis is essential for Los Angeles to regain momentum in the postseason race and to ensure their offensive lineup can support their championship aspirations.