TOKYO — Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts is facing challenges in regaining full health from an illness just days before the season opener against the Chicago Cubs set to take place in Japan. Manager Dave Roberts expressed concerns about Betts’ readiness, hinting that it might not be feasible for the eight-time All-Star to participate in the opening game on Tuesday.
After a light training session on Sunday, Betts quickly showed signs of fatigue, which was expected given his recent struggles. “He really showed some fatigue, understandably so,” Roberts remarked. The plan is to assess his condition in the coming days, with the hope that Betts will be able to handle slightly more strenuous activities soon.
The illness first manifested as flu-like symptoms while the team was in Arizona, just before their departure for Japan. Despite making the long journey, Betts has not bounced back as quickly as the team had hoped. Roberts mentioned that the team needs to observe significant health improvements by Monday if Betts is to have a realistic chance of joining the lineup against the Cubs.
“For him to be able to go through an entire workout and not feel that same fatigue would give us a chance,” Roberts explained. “But anything outside of that, I just don’t think our training staff would feel good about that.” As Betts has not been able to partake in live batting for nearly a week, his situation remains precarious.
Roberts emphasized the importance of considering Betts’ long-term health rather than focusing solely on the opening day. “We’re really trying to be mindful of not just opening day,” he said. “Not putting him in harm’s way. … We don’t want to put him in a position where he could get hurt.” The caution underscores the careful approach the Dodgers are taking to ensure their star player’s well-being for the entire season ahead.
