Los Angeles Dodgers' infielder Mookie Betts made headlines this week when he had to return to the United States due to unexplained health issues. On March 18, 2025, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed during a press conference at Tokyo Dome—before the opening game of the MLB Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs—that Betts had lost approximately 15 pounds (around 6.8 kilograms) due to his illness, causing concern among fans and teammates alike.
Betts had been scheduled to play but missed the open game against the Guardians on March 11, 2025 (Japan time of March 12). Manager Roberts explained, “He wasn’t feeling well,” indicating Betts’ condition did not improve after he arrived in Japan. Even though he participated briefly, displaying his trademark smile at practice and attending dinner hosted by fellow athlete Shohei Ohtani, he was ruled out of the important opening match. “He’s returned to America and arrived safely in Los Angeles,” Roberts confirmed.
This unfortunate turn of events left fans wishing for Betts’ swift recovery. His presence on the field is not only valuable for the Dodgers, but his absence raises questions considering his significant impact on the team's performance. The Dodgers managed just 11 wins against 13 losses last July when Betts was sidelined due to a fractured wrist from being hit by the ball, marking their only month of losing records last season.
The team is optimistic about Betts’ quick recovery as they prepare for their home opening against the Tigers on March 27, 2025. According to Roberts, “We want him to recover his strength over the next week.” There’s even speculation he may return home sooner than the whole team to gear up for the season's opening match at home.
Adding a touch of humor to the situation, fans were pleased to see Betts took to Instagram on March 18, 2025, around the time the opening game started. He urged his teammates, “Everyone, please wait with anticipation. I'll be back soon to do what I like,” echoing Arnold Schwarzenegger's famous line, “I’ll be back.” This light-hearted message is just what fans needed as they rally behind their star player during this tough time.
Roberts and the team acknowledge the importance of Betts. “It’s extremely important he is at his peak conditioning,” noted sources from Clutch Points, emphasizing they need him to retain his strength. His healing and resurgence are undoubtedly pivotal for the Dodgers as they push for another championship this season. Last season, Betts made notable contributions post-recovery from his wrist injury, helping lead the Dodgers to victory after his return.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his condition, the expectations for Betts remain high, paralleling his standing as one of baseball's elite players. Observers are faithfully watching to see how quickly he can rebound. It’s not only personal for Betts, who wants to regain his form, but also for the team eyeing the World Series title once again.
If the early concerns about Betts are any indication, fans and analysts alike will keep their fingers crossed for his speedy return. The overall sentiment is one of hope as the Dodgers await their star’s recovery, keeping championship aspirations alive and well.
The Dodgers organization has expressed awe at their player's determination and spirit, reflecting on the challenges they've faced without him. “We hope he hydrates and does everything necessary to regain the weight he lost,” remarked sources from Dodgers Nation, as the franchise continues to rally around their franchise player.
With preparations underway for their home opener, all eyes are set firmly on Mookie Betts—his health, and his future impacts the Dodgers more than anyone can predict. How quickly he can return remains the burning question across the baseball world, and one the Dodgers hope he can answer positively soon.
