"Without Mookie Betts' impressive transition to shortstop, the Dodgers' infield would have a black hole at the most important position. Solving that issue would have required a large expense, either financially or in prospect capital. While the Dodgers will eventually need to find Betts' successor, they will have ample time to figure that out because he is committed to sticking at shortstop for the rest of his career."
"I keep my body in really good shape. So as I age, the argument is you'll slow down, or whatever, but no, I'll be fine. I'll be fine. I'll work out and do everything it takes to be successful, to be able to move. And I understand that's what I got. I don't have the 230 pounds where I don't have to worry about it. I have to be able to move and stay agile."
"With a full offseason and Spring Training session to train as a shortstop, Betts was top-5 in MLB with 17 defensive runs saved and his six outs above average (OAA) ranked in the 92nd percentile in 2025. It earned him a nomination as a Gold Glove finalist last season, but it was St. Louis Cardinals' shortstop Masyn Winn who took home the hardware."
The Los Angeles Dodgers entered 2026 with an elite roster but relied on Mookie Betts' unexpected move to shortstop to avoid a major infield deficiency. Betts' shortstop play prevented the Dodgers from spending significant money or prospects to fill the position. Betts affirmed he plans to remain at shortstop for the remainder of his contract and career, citing rigorous training, body maintenance, and agility work. He enters age 33 in 2026 and intends to play out seven remaining contract seasons. Defensive metrics from 2025 included 17 defensive runs saved and a 92nd-percentile OAA, producing a Gold Glove nomination.
Read at Dodger Blue
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