Programming a reminder or leaving a sticky note may sound simple, but Mookie Betts requires every prompt available to remember his identity as a major player for the Dodgers. His contributions are crucial for the team aiming for a significant championship campaign.
The team misses the characteristic swagger that Betts brings as a four-time champion. They rely on him as a right-handed hitter that can maintain balance among left-handed stars, especially in the absence of key players like Will Smith. Manager Dave Roberts regularly reminds Betts of his capabilities. The guy standing 60 feet, 6 inches from him understands the baseball card, knows who’s in the box. And it’s important that Betts can’t forget that, regardless of what the scoreboard might say,
Roberts insists.
Statistically, the scoreboard has displayed Betts’ struggles this season. He entered a recent game with significant career lows in batting average (.239), on-base percentage (.295), and on-base-plus-slugging (.709). Betts, now in his 13th major league season, faces the effects of age and past injuries, including a notable oblique strain that sidelined him early in the season.
Betts has endured challenging times before. An illness last season led to a substantial weight loss, and his current statistics reflect his ongoing struggles. Yet Baseball Savant highlights the discrepancy between his potential and actual performance. Betts’ expected batting average sits at .278, but his real batting average falls short by .039 points, marking the third-largest gap in the league. His increased HardHit% and exit velocity indicate potential yet unrealized.
Despite hitting the ball with power, Betts recorded a .205 batting average in July with a .313 slugging percentage. He admits the current situation challenges him. I’m gonna have to help the team at some point,
he acknowledged in early August. Every day I show up and try to restore that hope meter. But this is very hard.
Roberts remains consistent in motivating Betts, recalling his accomplishments as a former MVP, eight-time All-Star, and seven-time Silver Slugger. Recently, Betts showed improvement in performance over a nine-game span, hitting .387 with a .645 slugging percentage. For me, it’s just kind of how he’s carrying himself, really,
Roberts remarked about Betts’ attitude and focus.
The Dodgers view Betts as indispensable. His play impacts the team not only through skill but through the energy he brings. When Betts excels, his teammates gain confidence and momentum.
Continuing reminders may seem trivial, but they hold value for Betts. Understanding his role and potential becomes vital, regardless of temporary setbacks. Bringing his baseball card to the forefront may very well prompt him to recall who he truly is on the field.