Mookie Betts to Miss Dodgers’ Opening Series in Japan
TOKYO — The Los Angeles Dodgers will begin their season without star outfielder Mookie Betts, who is sidelined due to a stomach virus. Betts is set to miss the team’s two opening games against the Chicago Cubs at the Tokyo Dome this week.
Current Health Status
Manager Dave Roberts provided an update on Betts’ condition, indicating that the player is still in recovery mode after being ill since last weekend. Although there is optimism regarding his readiness for the Dodgers’ home opener on March 27 against the Detroit Tigers, Roberts mentioned that the situation remains fluid.
“He’s still trying to find his way [physically],” Roberts stated. “The question is, what’s best to get him ready for opening day? We’re still talking. That’s on the table.”
Background on Betts’ Illness
Betts began feeling unwell just before the team’s departure for Japan. His last appearance in the Cactus League was on March 9, after which he reported to the club that he was experiencing symptoms that led to his exclusion from the final two games in Arizona.
Initial discussions did not consider withdrawing him from the trip, as Roberts reassured that the illness was not contagious and posed no risk to other team members. However, Betts subsequently lost close to 15 pounds during his illness and appeared physically diminished upon arrival in Tokyo.
Further Precautions by Dodgers
As Betts started to feel better in recent days, concerns remained regarding his recovery from dehydration and fatigue. Roberts highlighted the risks associated with significant weight loss and dehydration, stating, “When you lose a lot of weight, that’s what opens a person up to soft-tissue injuries. We’re very mindful of that.”
The team is currently assessing the best approach to allow Betts to regain his strength before he resumes baseball activities and prepares for the home opener.
Impact on Upcoming Games
Despite intending to participate in off-day workouts, Betts canceled his scheduled session on Monday, as he continued to feel the aftereffects of his illness. His absence will extend to the Dodgers’ exhibition games against Japanese teams over the weekend prior to the season opener.
Roberts acknowledged that had the team been aware of Betts’ condition beforehand, they might have opted to keep him in Los Angeles rather than risk further complications on the trip.