Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers), a multi-position player with a natural athleticism, will be playing second base full-time next year. Second base is no stranger to Betts. A former second baseman, Betts was converted to the outfield after losing second base to Dustin Pedroia during his time with the Boston Red Sox.
On May 5, Yahoo Sports reported, “Betts will no longer alternate between second base and right field. He will be the Dodgers’ full-time second baseman next year.”
“Betts played 77 games in right field this season, 62 at second base and 12 at shortstop. If the opposing starter is a right-handed pitcher, he will start in right field, but after meeting with manager Dave Roberts, he will play second base based on preference and age.”
“Roberts also confirmed on MLB Network that Betts will be the starting second baseman next year,” Yahoo Sports reported.
“Betts batted .307 with 39 homers and 107 RBIs to help the Dodgers win the National League West for the second straight season and finish second in National League MVP voting behind Ronald Acuna Jr.
In Betts’ place, left-hander Jason Heyward will start in right field.
Roberts will use Heyward as the starting right fielder when facing a right-handed starter. 안전놀이터 Roberts is looking for a starting right fielder to play when facing a lefty.
“If Betts can play 160-plus games at second base, he’ll be a great addition to the team,” the outlet said.
Betts, who made his big league debut with Boston in 2014, was acquired by the Dodgers in 2020 and has played in 1265 career games, batting .294 (5044-for-1,485) with 252 home runs, 756 RBI, 996 runs scored, 172 stolen bases and a .900 OPS.
Betts, who hit the iconic 20 home runs and 20 doubles for the third straight season in 2016, is a four-time American League Gold Glove outfielder and two-time Silver Slugger outfielder.