Back to His Roots: Dodgers Slugger Trades in Gloves for Shortstop Duties
The Los Angeles Dodgers are moving perennial All-Star Mookie Betts back to shortstop in 2025, according to Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic. Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes made the announcement at the Winter Meetings in Dallas today. Betts had played some of 2024 at shortstop and struggled at times. He moved back to his more familiar position of right field after returning from a broken hand last August.
Dodgers Moving Mookie Betts Back to Shortstop
Moving Chess Pieces
Earlier this year, Los Angeles announced that Betts was moving back to the infield. Most speculation was that he would play second base and that the Dodgers were in the market for a shortstop. However, there weren’t many options to be had, and with Willy Adames being signed by the San Francisco Giants, it appears that Los Angeles will give Betts more time at shortstop.
Other Options
The Dodgers just signed National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Tommy Edman to a five-year extension. Edman was acquired in a three-team trade in July. He split his time between center field and shortstop and played solid defense. However, it appears he will be the everyday center fielder going forward.
As a result, Gavin Lux will stay at second base for now. There was some speculation that he could be traded if Betts moved back to the infield. The one-time top prospect is coming off his first full year in the big leagues after suffering a severe knee injury in spring training in 2023. He was slated to be the Opening Day shortstop before he got hurt, but he was moved to second base after having trouble throwing to first.
More Shuffling to Come
It remains to be seen what other moves the reigning World Series Champions make. What is certain is that the Dodgers will leave no stone unturned in an effort to improve themselves, especially if they want to remain on top.
