The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving right fielder Mookie Betts back to the infield next year, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes confirmed the news, per Fabian Ardaya of Athletic.
The Dodgers are planning to move Mookie Betts back to the infield, Brandon Gomes said today.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) November 6, 2024
Dodgers Moving Mookie Betts Back to Infield
What This Means for Mookie
It is not clear what infield position Betts would play. He does have some experience at shortstop, a position he played for the majority of 2024 before being sidelined with a broken hand. However, second base is probably the most natural fit for the All-Star, and it’s where Betts is most comfortable.
Not a Lux(ury) Anymore?
This makes for a crowded infield in 2025 with Tommy Edman and Miguel Rojas both returning in 2o25 and sharing time at shortstop. Gavin Lux is probably the odd man out. He is one of the only Dodgers who plays a single position and faces primarily left-handed pitching. Lux was once the top prospect in the Dodger organization, but has somewhat struggled offensively at the major league level, having a career batting average of .251.
To his credit, he carried an injury-laden Los Angeles team in July and August with a batting average near .350 and played a solid second base. He also had a crucial sacrifice fly to tie Game Five of the World Series against the New York Yankees.
What Mookie Means for the Dodgers
The Dodgers will have an open outfield spot. Will they go after Juan Soto? Will they re-sign Teoscar Hernández, who has made it very clear that he prefers to stay in Los Angeles? Has Andy Pages earned a permanent corner outfield spot next year? Is James Outman a reliable option in center field? Will they find room on the 40-man roster for Dalton Rushing? The top prospect has made starts in left field at Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Whatever happens, the Dodgers are trying to get a head start on a versatile 2025 roster. Ideally, it will be a roster that has the best shot to keep them competing for World Series championships.
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