A Stomach Bug Turned Into a Setback
What began as a stomach illness turned into a nightmare month for Dodgers star Mookie Betts. Missing the Tokyo Series and dropping nearly 20 pounds, Betts faced both physical and mental challenges as he struggled through April with a .230 batting average.
“I’m Not Shohei”—Betts Comes Clean
In a candid moment, Betts admitted the difficulty of bouncing back compared to teammate Shohei Ohtani. “I can’t, unfortunately, not have my A-swing and still knock it out like Shohei,” he said. His game, based on precision and timing, couldn’t withstand the kind of setback his two-way phenom teammate might weather more easily.
Fighting Back With a Plan
Working with trainers, a personal chef, and the Dodgers’ staff, Betts began a strict recovery routine. Slowly but surely, the results began to show. As of early May, he raised his average to .264 with 5 home runs and 21 RBIs—clear signs that he’s finding his rhythm again.
Ohtani’s Dominance Continues
While Betts fought to recover, Ohtani soared. With a .296 average, 10 home runs, and a 1.006 OPS, he’s once again proving to be the most complete player in baseball. And later this season, he’s expected to return to pitching—doubling his impact.
Dodgers on Fire in 2025
The Dodgers currently sit atop the NL West with a 24-12 record, thanks in large part to the Betts-Ohtani duo. Their mix of power, speed, and leadership is shaping the Dodgers’ title run, with Betts adapting to his new shortstop role and Ohtani delivering MVP-level performances.
Conclusion
Betts’ humility and resilience stand out in a league driven by stats. Admitting he’s no Ohtani didn’t diminish him—it reminded fans how tough greatness can be. With both stars now locked in, the Dodgers might just be the team to beat.