Betts Makes Case for Leadoff Spot as Ohtani's Return Looms

Mookie Betts is experiencing his most potent offensive stretch in two years, leading to speculation about whether he should continue as the Los Angeles Dodgers' leadoff hitter even after Shohei Ohtani returns from injury. While Ohtani has historically occupied the leadoff spot since midway through the 2024 season, Betts has made a compelling case in his absence.

Over the past week, Betts has batted leadoff in three games, delivering strong performances in each. This included a 2-for-4 outing with a double and an RBI, a 3-for-4 effort with two home runs against the San Francisco Giants, and a 4-for-4 performance with three doubles, two RBIs, and a walk in a 10-4 victory over the Giants on September 20. This recent surge has improved Betts' season batting average to .261 with an OPS of .785. Manager Dave Roberts noted Betts' improved physical condition, stating, "The ball's coming off the right way."

Since August 5, Betts has hit .336 in 39 games, with nine home runs, 12 doubles, 31 RBIs, and a 1.008 OPS. This marks his best extended offensive run since early in the 2024 season, demonstrating a resurgence in his hitting ability.

"I know I'm still capable of it," Betts said. "I know it was in there somewhere." Roberts added, "It just doesn't matter where you hit him, who he's facing, [what's] the situation –– he's taking good at-bats."

Betts' effectiveness at the top of the lineup has become particularly noticeable as uncertainty surrounds Ohtani's return from right arm and left knee injuries. Ohtani is expected back soon but may not be at full strength. Roberts has not definitively stated that Ohtani will resume his leadoff role immediately upon his return, suggesting he will "potentially read and react" once Ohtani is back.

Roberts indicated that factors such as matchups against left- or right-handed pitching could influence lineup decisions, leaving open the possibility of adjustments, especially heading into October. He stated, "I haven't really thought too much about it [yet]."

Betts himself has expressed willingness to hit anywhere in the lineup, noting Friday, "I'll hit wherever" and that "there's a guy that's named Shohei that needs to be up there and to get us going." However, with an alternative leadoff hitter, Tommy Edman, currently in a slump, Betts has emerged as a strong fallback option.

"Going back up there, it is fun," Betts acknowledged, having spent significant time as a leadoff hitter throughout his career. "Kind of feels like home."

The Dodgers have performed well in Ohtani's absence, winning 13 of their last 16 games despite him playing in only one of those contests. Betts' current offensive performance has been a key factor in the team's success. "It's good. It's fun. But the main thing is doing it when it counts," Betts said of his recent success. "Right now, just keep laying the foundation, and then when playoffs come, just need it to show up."

Roberts conceded he did not anticipate Betts' current surge but praised his hard work and development, stating, "And just for it to come together has been great."