Dodgers Manager Clears Stance on Mookie Betts’ Position Switch After Humiliating Loss to Guardians

When the Dodgers lose a game, it doesn’t just make headlines, it sends shockwaves through the baseball world. That’s the level of dominance they’ve built. So when they dropped a tough one to the Guardians, the reaction bordered on disbelief. The loss wasn’t just unexpected, but it was brutal. Naturally, the speculation begins: Will there be changes in the lineup? The answer may be yes, but let’s be clear, any shakeup won’t be starting with Mookie Betts.

Betts, the Dodgers’ all-weather shortstop, held down the position through much of the 2024 season, but it was always, officially, a temporary assignment. He was pressed into service late in spring training, and the six-time Gold Glove winner switched from right field out of necessity. However, this time, the Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, hopes to keep Betts fixed at shortstop.

“I don’t see us making a change even as we did last year. I don’t see that happening,” Roberts said. “He’s a major league shortstop on a championship club.”

Betts’ transition to shortstop for the Dodgers has been a compelling narrative in recent seasons, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to team success. His athleticism and baseball intelligence have allowed him to make significant contributions defensively. That includes executing impressive plays like a slick inning-ending double play with teammate Freddie Freeman during the game against the Guardians.

However, Betts’ offensive numbers in 2025 have seen a slight dip compared to his career averages. His focus on improving his defense skills took a toll on the other part. For starters, his offensive performance in the 2025 season has seen a noticeable dip compared to his career averages. As of late May, Betts batting .254 with 8 home runs and 31 RBIs. Now, these figures are below his career averages of a .293 batting average, indicating a slower start to the season.

So, are the Dodgers going to compromise with Betts’ offense, given his defensive role?

Well, Betts’ offensive role is too good to be compromised. Remember the game against the Tigers on 28th March? In a dazzling display of power and poise, Betts lit up the Dodgers’ home opener with two home runs. That was no more electric than his three-run walk-off blast in the 10th inning that sealed an 8–5 victory.

Expect a few more such moments to come this year with Betts getting fixed at shortstop. And that will naturally benefit the Dodgers who are making steady progress.

The Dodgers are sailing seamlessly

Yes, bumps have been there, just like their 4-7 loss to the Guardians, but when you see the overall story, the Dodgers’ 2025 season has been a tale of resilience and resurgence. After a strong 8-0 start, the NL West leaders encountered a mid-April slump, marked by inconsistent pitching and offensive struggles. However, now that the team has rebounded impressively, a .607 winning percentage might come in handy in their postseason dream.

So, who is driving the machine?

Well, key contributors to this turnaround include Shohei Ohtani, who leads MLB with 20 home runs, and Freddie Freeman, who has been a consistent offensive force. The pitching staff, bolstered by standout performances from Dustin May and reliever Ben Casparius, has stabilized after early challenges.

Hence, despite recent setbacks, such as a 7-4 loss to the Guardians on May 28, the Dodgers’ overall trajectory remains positive. With the upcoming series against the Yankees and Mets, the team aims to maintain its momentum and solidify its position atop the division.