Mookie Betts Aims to Overcome October Struggles: Reflecting on Past Performance
Mookie Betts, the star player of the Los Angeles Dodgers, is entering his first spring training as an infielder in nearly a decade. This new role comes with a fresh perspective for Betts, as he is no longer the lone $300 million man on the team. With the additions of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Betts finds himself in the company of some of baseball’s highest-paid players.
The stakes are high for Betts and his fellow MVP candidate Freddie Freeman, especially after Betts’ struggles in last October’s postseason. Betts went 0-for-11 during the Dodgers’ short-lived playoff run, and he acknowledges that he didn’t show up when it mattered most. However, Betts is not one to dwell on past failures. He quickly moves on to the next thing, whether it be his production company, podcast, or his transition from right field to second base.
Betts admits that the NLDS loss to the Diamondbacks gnawed at him briefly, but he understands the importance of moving on. Within weeks, he was already focused on other projects and preparing for the next season. Despite not being able to contribute on the field during the World Series, Betts remained engaged as a correspondent for MLB’s social media platforms.
During the offseason, Betts solidified his position change with a conversation with manager Dave Roberts. After playing more infield last season than any other in nearly a decade, Betts is now the Dodgers’ full-time second baseman who occasionally plays in the outfield. This move was years in the making and has allowed Betts to showcase his versatility.
Betts doesn’t let losses consume him for too long. He has a family and a life outside of baseball that he can’t let be derailed by a disappointing performance. While he reflects on his shortcomings, he also understands the importance of moving forward and focusing on the upcoming season. Betts recognizes that showing up is what ultimately matters, and he is determined to do so.
Last season, Betts was a top contender for the MVP award, and his versatility played a significant role in the Dodgers’ success. He set a career-high in home runs but struggled towards the end of the season, which carried over into the playoffs. Betts acknowledges that he may have been chasing individual milestones instead of focusing on team success.
Betts understands the responsibility that comes with being a superstar player. When he doesn’t deliver, he feels the burden and disappointment. But his teammates and fans appreciate his dedication and passion for the game. This winter, the burden on Betts has lightened with the addition of new players like Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Teoscar Hernández. However, Betts knows that adding talent to the team doesn’t automatically guarantee success in October.
For Betts, the most important thing is improving his performance in October. He has struggled in the past two postseasons, going a combined 2-for-25. Betts acknowledges that he needs to find a solution to perform better when it matters most.
As spring training begins, all eyes will be on Mookie Betts and his quest to overcome his October struggles. With a fresh perspective and a determination to show up when it counts, Betts aims to help lead the Dodgers to postseason success. Only time will tell if he can deliver on his aspirations and cement himself as one of baseball’s elite players.
(Photo of Mookie Betts: Rick Scuteri / USA Today)