The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without Mookie Betts for the past two weeks after he was hit by a 98 mph fastball from Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Dan Altavilla that fractured his left hand.
Manager Dave Roberts said at the time that he expected Betts to miss a minimum of six weeks. The initial projection has the 2018 American League MVP returning at the end of July in a best-case scenario, or at some point in August.
During a recent appearance on “Dodger Talk” with David Vassegh, Betts said he still hasn’t been able to resume baseball activities, but noted his hand is healing nicely:
“I can’t do anything. I can move it, though. It’s just broken. It is what it is. I get it (checked by doctors) once a week. Today, I go in and check again for this week. They say it’s healing up nice.”
While it must be disappointing for Betts that he hasn’t been able to do much in his recovery so far, there is at least some progress being made with the healing process.
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With Betts still a ways away from returning, the Dodgers have been primarily relying on Miguel Rojas to fill the void at shortstop.
The veteran has done an exceptional job and could remain the starter at the position even when Betts returns. In that event, Betts would likely shift to second base and push Gavin Lux to the bench.
Mookie Betts surpassed in 2024 MLB All-Star Game voting
Betts received the most votes of any National League shortstop during Phase 1 of 2024 MLB All-Star Game voting, but was surpassed by the Philadelphia Phillies’ Trea Turner in the second round.
Turner will now start at shortstop for the NL in the 94th Midsummer Classic, which will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Globe Life Field.
