Mookie Betts, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, remains sidelined as he continues to battle a concerning stomach illness that has significantly impacted his health and performance on the field. On Sunday, March 23, 2025, Betts was a late scratch from the lineup against the Los Angeles Angels, a decision that came after he was unable to keep food down—an ongoing struggle that has seen him lose around 25 pounds in recent weeks.
Prior to this setback, Betts arrived at Camelback Ranch at a robust weight of 175 pounds, only to see that plummet to just 150 pounds. His previous attempts at consuming solid foods ended in repeated episodes of vomiting, forcing him to rely solely on smoothies for sustenance. The illness emerged just before the Dodgers traveled to Japan for the Tokyo Series, leading to Betts being sent home early due to his condition.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of his struggles, Betts remarked, “I just want to play. I’m tired of sitting, tired of just throwing up, tired of doing all this. I just really want to play.” In apparent frustration, he detailed, “Every time I eat something, it just comes right out.” His insistence on getting back on the field resonated further when he stated, “I guess I’m just going to be light for a little bit.” Betts indicated that despite the weight loss, he feels capable of contributing to the team, saying, “Even though I'm light I can still play.”
Betts’s illness has stymied his preparations for the 2025 season. “My body feels great; I can work out and do almost everything as usual except eat,” he added, expressing a peculiar irony in feeling physically fit but unable to maintain essential nutrition. As team doctors work to help him recover, Betts has started new medication as a part of his treatment aimed at alleviating the irritation in his stomach. The extensive blood tests and vital checks he underwent have returned normal results, leading to no definitive diagnosis yet.
With the season's home opener against the Detroit Tigers approaching on Thursday, March 27, 2025, Betts’s readiness remains uncertain. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Betts will not be in the lineup on Monday, March 24, 2025, against the Angels, but the team hopes to get it resolved soon. “It’s just hard to fathom not eating and going to play a game,” noted Betts, emphasizing the mental strain he faces in light of ongoing nutritional issues.
While Betts’s fitness for the upcoming games is in question, teammate Freddie Freeman has returned to the lineup successfully after missing the Dodgers’ initial games in Japan due to rib discomfort. Freeman contributed to the Dodgers' decisive 7-1 victory against the Angels, grounding out in both of his at-bats, while ensuring his health was monitored closely by the coaching staff for any potential setbacks.
As star players like Betts strive to recover, the Dodgers remain steadfast in their optimism. Despite their ongoing battles with injuries, they managed to win their first two matches in the Tokyo Series without their key players. The show of resilience highlights the team's depth and ability to adapt in challenging times.
Fans anxiously await further updates on Betts’s health, eager to see the eight-time All-Star back in form as the season progresses. With a talented roster, the Dodgers not only aim for a successful season but also for the health and well-being of their star players.
