Dodgers' Dave Roberts Says Mookie Betts' Illness Was Getting 'Concerning'
03/27/2025 12:00 PM
Mookie Betts was on the sidelines with an illness for more than two weeks. The eight-time All-Star outfielder finally returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup on Tuesday.
Betts, who lost approximately 20 pounds while battling the illness, developed symptoms before the Dodgers' trip to Japan for the Tokyo Series. The Dodgers organization decided to send Betts home early, and he did not play in either of the games against the Chicago Cubs.
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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters that the uncertainty surrounding Betts' illness was becoming concerning.
"I think it was getting to be pretty concerning because there really isn't something to compare what he was going through," Roberts said. "We were trying to remain positive, but it was really disconcerting."
Betts ultimately recovered from the illness and played in the final game of the Freeway Series against the Los Angeles Angels. Betts was unable to hold down solid foods but told reporters he felt great and normal on Tuesday.
After the game, Betts said he felt confident he would be healthy for the Dodgers' home opener on Thursday against the Detroit Tigers.
In addition to Betts, Los Angeles was missing first baseman Freddie Freeman for the Tokyo Series. The 2024 World Series Most Valuable Player was managing rib discomfort in the same spot he suffered broken rib cartilage during the postseason.
The Dodgers scratched Freeman from the Tokyo Series lineup shortly before the first pitch. However, Roberts was not concerned about Freeman's injury as he did not think it was as severe as the postseason version.
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Freeman also returned to the Dodgers lineup for the Freeway Series. He played in all three games of the series.
Having a healthy Betts and Freeman is critical as the Dodgers seek back-to-back World Series titles. Fortunately for the Dodgers, both Betts and Freeman appear healthy for Thursday's home opener.
Photo Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
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