Dodgers’ Dave Roberts Eyes Mookie Betts’ Rebound and Lineup Shift for 2026
The Los Angeles Dodgers are banking on a bounce-back year from Mookie Betts, with manager Dave Roberts outlining plans for a key role in the 2026 lineup. After a challenging 2025 season, the Dodgers are positioning Betts to hit third, a shift from his previous spot, hoping to unlock his offensive potential.
Betts’ Challenging 2025 and Path to Recovery
Last year proved challenging for Betts, marked by a stomach bug during spring training that led to a nearly 20-pound weight loss and an early return home from the Dodgers’ trip to Japan. His offensive production dipped significantly, hitting just .172 in his last 30 games with a .478 OPS. Despite remaining an elite defender – ranking as the third-best shortstop in the league in defensive runs saved – his overall performance fell short of expectations.
Roberts acknowledged the struggles, noting that Betts had “something to prove” this season. The manager believes the off-season provided Betts with a crucial opportunity to reset and focus on all aspects of his game, rather than being consumed by the adjustment to a fresh position at shortstop.
Lineup Construction: A Puzzle for Dave Roberts
Roberts described assembling a lineup as “piecing together a puzzle,” and the Dodgers are currently evaluating the optimal arrangement of their star players. The anticipated lineup features Shohei Ohtani leading off, followed by Kyle Tucker, with Betts hitting third and Freddie Freeman batting cleanup. Yet, Roberts indicated the second and fourth spots are still under consideration.
This arrangement aims to provide Betts with better protection in the lineup, offering opportunities for runners to score. The Dodgers believe the combination of Ohtani and Tucker ahead of Betts, coupled with Freeman behind him, will create a potent offensive force.
The Third Spot: A “Swiss Army Knife” Role for Betts
Roberts envisions the third spot as a versatile role for Betts, allowing him to embrace a first-hitter mentality focused on getting on base even as still leveraging his proven ability to drive in runs. He believes this position suits Betts’ skillset, providing a balance between on-base percentage and run production.
“You’re more like a Swiss Army knife,” Roberts stated, emphasizing Betts’ potential to contribute in multiple ways.
Dodgers’ Confidence in Betts’ Return to Form
Despite the recent struggles, the Dodgers remain confident that Betts’ 2025 season was an anomaly. They point to his strong work ethic and consistent track record as evidence that he can return to his All-Star form. Roberts highlighted Betts’ dedication, stating, “Mookie only cares about winning.”
With a full off-season, a normal spring training, and the pursuit of a rare three-peat, both Betts and the Dodgers are optimistic about a significantly improved 2026 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What position will Mookie Betts play in 2026?
A: Mookie Betts will continue to play shortstop for the Dodgers in 2026.
Q: Why did Mookie Betts struggle in 2025?
A: A stomach bug that caused significant weight loss and the adjustment to a new position at shortstop contributed to Betts’ struggles in 2025.
Q: Where will Mookie Betts bat in the Dodgers lineup?
A: Mookie Betts is likely to bat third in the Dodgers’ 2026 lineup.
Q: What is Dave Roberts’ expectation for Mookie Betts in 2026?
A: Dave Roberts hopes Mookie Betts will have something to prove and believes he has the potential to be in the conversation for the MVP award.
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