Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts is gradually emerging from a prolonged slump this season, a turnaround partly credited to the influence of former Boston Red Sox teammate J.D. Martinez. After enduring one of his worst stretches, Betts snapped an 0-for-22 hitless streak last Tuesday, which included a career-worst five-game drought without a hit. Just days later, Betts launched his first home run since early July, signaling potential momentum.
Reunion in Tampa Sparks Progress at the Bat
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Betts’ resurgence began when Martinez visited Tampa in early August. The two hitters reunited at the batting cage, renewing the chemistry that powered Boston’s 2018 World Series championship team. Both players returned as teammates with the Dodgers in 2023, rekindling the dynamic partnership they once shared.
Challenges Behind Betts’ Difficult Season
MLB.com’s Sarah Wexler outlined the obstacles Betts has faced this year, which include battling a mysterious illness that caused significant weight loss and recently taking time away from the team due to the passing of his stepfather.
“with a mysterious illness that saw him drop 18 pounds. He was recently away from the team following the death of his stepfather,”
Wexler wrote.
Statistics Reflect a Struggling Season Despite Improvement
While Martinez’s presence has helped awaken Betts’ offensive output, Betts’ numbers still rank among his lowest. He is hitting a career-worst .240, with his on-base percentage at .310, slugging percentage at .369, and OPS at .680, all marks that fall below his usual standards for the future Hall of Famer.
J.D. Martinez’s Impressive Career and Mentoring Role
Martinez, who last played in the 2024 season with the New York Mets, enjoyed a distinguished 14-year MLB career as a designated hitter. A six-time All-Star, he finished with a .283 lifetime batting average and eclipsed the .300 mark five times. His peak came with the Red Sox, where in 2018 he smashed 43 home runs, led the majors with 130 RBIs and 358 total bases, and finished fourth in American League MVP voting—the award that Betts ultimately won as they led Boston to a fourth championship in the 21st century.
Beyond his on-field success, Martinez earned respect for his willingness to mentor younger players. His contributions within the Red Sox clubhouse as a hitting guide suggest a potential transition into coaching following his playing career.
Calls for Martinez to Expand His Coaching Influence
Jon Heyman expressed on social media that the Mets could benefit by hiring Martinez as a hitting consultant, noting the positive impact he could have on prospects such as Mark Vientos.
“(The) Mets should hire JD Martinez as a hitting consultant,”
Heyman posted.
“(Mark) Vientos and others would benefit from his vast knowledge.”
Looking Ahead: What Betts’ Recovery Means for the Dodgers
The assistance from JD Martinez has come at a crucial time as Mookie Betts battles to regain his peak form during the 2024 campaign. If Betts fully rebounds, the Dodgers could see a key boost to their lineup. Meanwhile, Martinez’s post-playing prospects as a mentor or coach might help shape the next generation of hitters, continuing his influence in MLB beyond his active years on the field.