How the Dodgers' Mookie Betts seeks to regain his All-Star form - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Jack Vita

March 2, 2026

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Mookie Betts, a long-time Los Angeles Dodger star, is determined to reclaim his All-Star status after experiencing an underwhelming season in 2023. Known for consistent high performance since 2015, Betts saw career lows in key stats last year, including a .258 batting average and a .732 OPS. Despite this, he remains confident in his ability to bounce back, attributing the dip partly to a stomach bug that hindered his spring training readiness. Betts emphasized his current physical health and mental focus, noting he feels more in control of his game than he has in years. Manager Dave Roberts echoed this sentiment, predicting Betts will be a key player in the MVP conversation and a crucial asset for the Dodgers' championship goals. To support Betts' recovery, the team implemented a strategic approach to his spring training, delaying his start to allow gradual build-up rather than pushing him too early. This load management strategy aimed to prevent overexertion and ensure Betts enters the season fully prepared. Betts acknowledged the challenges of retooling his game last year but found solace in late-season improvements, where he posted a .317 batting average and an impressive .892 OPS across 47 games. These strong performances towards the end of the season gave him confidence and reaffirmed his belief in his abilities. For fans and readers following baseball news, Betts' potential return to form is significant. His performance could play a pivotal role in the Dodgers' success this year, adding depth to an already formidable lineup and elevating the team's chances in the competitive NL West.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/2/2026