Mookie Betts will miss the Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs due to an ongoing illness. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed this news on Sunday evening, highlighting the team’s commitment to player health.
According to Roberts, Betts is beginning to feel better, but he has lost nearly 15 pounds and is still in the process of rehydrating and regaining his strength. The eight-time All-Star may return to the United States ahead of the team to rest and prepare for the Dodgers’ home opener on March 27.
The Dodgers and Cubs are set to kick off the Major League Baseball season on Tuesday at the Tokyo Dome, with a second game scheduled for Wednesday.
“He will not participate in these two games,” Roberts stated. “Dehydration can lead to soft tissue injuries, and we are very mindful of that risk.”
In Betts’ absence, Miguel Rojas will take over at shortstop for the duration of the Tokyo games, stepping into a vital role for the team.
Betts participated in a light workout on Sunday but quickly became fatigued. He began experiencing flu-like symptoms while in Arizona, just a day before the team’s departure for Japan. Despite enduring the long flight, his recovery has not progressed as quickly as hoped.
This season marks Betts’ full-time move to shortstop after spending most of his career in right field and second base. Last season, the 2018 AL MVP posted a .289 batting average, hitting 19 home runs and driving in 75 runs, playing a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
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