Dodgers Discuss Bringing Mookie Betts Back to Infield for 2025 Season
Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes revealed that the team plans to have Mookie Betts return to the infield in 2025, potentially playing second base or shortstop. This decision comes after discussions with Betts, who has expressed enjoyment playing in the infield over the past two years, as reported by Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times.
While Gomes emphasized that the plan is not finalized, he highlighted that the idea came up after Betts, an eight-time All-Star, shared how much he enjoyed the infield role. Gomes also noted that Betts' preference for the infield might be due to less physical strain compared to playing in the outfield.
"I know the toll on the body is less in the infield for him," Gomes commented at the GM meetings on Wednesday. "So, you can make arguments on both sides of it. But the beauty of Mookie is (he's) the most selfless superstar we've ever been around. And that permeates through the team."
In 2024, Betts started as the Dodgers' shortstop before suffering a hand fracture in mid-June, which led to his return to right field in August. Over his 11-year career, Betts has accumulated 958 starts in right field.
Throughout his time in the majors, Betts has also played 99 games at second base and 73 games at shortstop.
