Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has shared some positive news about Mookie Betts. Recently, Betts battled an illness that made it hard for him to eat, causing him to lose 18 pounds. However, he completed a full workout at Dodger Stadium, and it seems he’s on the path to recovery. Roberts mentioned that Betts is likely to play in the team’s final exhibition game against the Angels.
Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani is getting back into pitching. He’s set to throw off a mound this Saturday for the first time since February. This move is part of his transition back to a starting pitcher role, following a break. The Dodgers had him focus on the season as a designated hitter before considering a return to both hitting and pitching.
Roberts noted that Ohtani still needs to go through several practice sessions before he can fully reenter the rotation. “The key is to have him able to do both by October,” Roberts said, emphasizing the long-term view for Ohtani.
Betts faced challenges recently, having been unable to keep solid food down for nearly two weeks. His weight dropped from 175 to 157 pounds during this time, which raised concerns. He required an IV in Japan due to his condition and had to leave early. Although he was initially scratched from the exhibition lineup, Betts has since shown signs of improvement. He successfully ate solid food again, which Roberts heralded as a positive sign.
In the world of baseball, keeping players healthy is crucial, especially as the season kicks off. Recent studies show that injuries in players can significantly impact team performance. In 2022, nearly 1,800 injuries were reported across MLB, underscoring the importance of managing player health effectively.
As Betts and Ohtani prepare for their commitments this season, fans are eagerly anticipating how they will contribute to the Dodgers’ success. Each player brings a unique skill set, and the team’s management seems determined to ensure they shine both on and off the field.
For more on player health and performance management strategies, you can check out resources from The American Journal of Sports Medicine.
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