Los Angeles star Mookie Betts is set to arrive around the first pitch of Saturday’s game at Fenway Park, missing the series opener and Boston Red Sox on Friday.
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Manager Dave Roberts revealed that Betts is in Nashville for personal reasons, confirming that the star’s absence is linked to the death of his family.
“It may be that he may not be around, that he has to deal with personally,” Roberts said Wednesday. “He’s all fine, but yeah, we’ll see.”
Roberts added that Betts could be a pinch hit in Saturday’s game, but the decision will be made when he joins the team.
Betts has struggled to find his way with the plate this season, hitting just .172 with .478 OPS in his last 30 games. The All-Star has posted the final career in several offensive categories, and it is unclear when Betts will be the corner.
Gold Glover made an unprecedented transition from right field to shortstop, proving that he can play above average defense in his new position. Betts ranks in the 76th percentile with above average outs, indicating he plays.
Roberts recently moved Shohei Ohtani out of the leadoff spot and instead made Betts the number one batsman. Since the move, Betts has only been 17-3.
“It’s very difficult,” Betts said last week. “I don’t understand that. So obviously, it’s very difficult. But I’ll tell you one thing. I definitely love the process. I definitely love the process of trying to figure out who I am and where I am and where I am.
Betts previously dealt with stomach illness that caused him to lose nearly 20 pounds. When the traveled to Japan to start the season, he was unable to play in the Tokyo Series.
Whether Betts’ offensive struggle can link to illness or a new position, it’s clear that the star is doing everything he can to get back to full shape.
Photo credit: David Frerker-Immagn Image
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