Mookie Betts is back in the lineup for the Los Angeles Dodgers, bringing a major boost to the team. The Dodgers have officially activated their eight-time All-Star, Mookie Betts, from the injured list. To make room on the roster, the team has designated Amed Rosario for assignment.
Betts will be starting in right field, a change from the team’s earlier plans to play him at shortstop upon his return. He is set to bat second in the Dodgers’ lineup, between Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, marking his first appearance in the two-spot since 2020.
Betts had been sidelined since June 16 due to a fractured hand. Before his injury, he was having an impressive season, batting .304 with 10 home runs and an .892 OPS through 72 games.
Notably, Betts’ return comes without any rehab games in the minors. Instead, he participated in a few simulated games last week, preparing to rejoin the team in Milwaukee.
Earlier in the season, Betts spent much of his time at shortstop, a new position for him. While he enjoyed the challenge, Betts emphasized the importance of doing what’s best for the team’s success. “I loved the challenge of playing shortstop, but you also have to be real with yourself and the team and do what’s best,” Betts said. “That’s what I’ve preached from the beginning. All I want to do is win. I just feel like Miggy and Nick Ahmed being there; that’s winning baseball.”
With Betts back in the lineup, the Dodgers are well-positioned for the remainder of the season. Fresh off a three-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Los Angeles currently holds a 3.5-game lead over the Diamondbacks and Pirates in the NL East.
As for Amed Rosario, it appears his time with the Dodgers may be coming to an end. Acquired in a July trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, Rosario played just five games with Los Angeles, going 3-11 with a double in 12 plate appearances. He was hitting .306 on the season before being designated for assignment.
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