With the 2025 MLB season fast approaching, Los Angeles Dodgers fans have been hit with a troubling update regarding Mookie Betts, one of their superstar players.
Betts recently opened up about a lingering health issue that has not only affected his physical condition but is now threatening his availability for Opening Day — a possibility that could severely impact the Dodgers’ early-season momentum.
Ongoing Health Battle
Betts revealed that he has been battling illness ever since his participation in the Tokyo Series. According to Betts, his symptoms began just days before the series started, significantly affecting his ability to perform and maintain his usual fitness levels.
Since then, his condition has shown little improvement, leading him to return to Los Angeles early in hopes of recovering faster.
The standout player disclosed that he’s been dealing with persistent stomach issues, which have severely hampered his ability to retain food.
This inability to eat properly has led to dramatic weight loss — Betts is currently down to 157 pounds, a stark drop from his typical 175-pound playing weight.
For an elite athlete like Betts, such weight loss is concerning, not just for his strength and stamina but also for his overall well-being.
Mookie’s Frustration Boils Over
Betts didn’t hide his frustration when speaking about the situation. Despite his best efforts, he’s been unable to shake off the illness or return to form. He shared openly:
“But I just want to play, man. I’m tired of sitting, tired of just throwing up, tired of doing all this. I just really just want to play.”
His words captured the exhaustion and emotional toll the illness has taken on him. The illness has essentially sidelined him from fully participating in preseason activities, which is especially disheartening given how close the regular season is.
No Clear Diagnosis Yet
Perhaps the most concerning detail is that, despite the ongoing symptoms and time missed, there is still no specific diagnosis for what’s ailing Betts.
Medical staff are still trying to figure out the root cause of his stomach issues, leaving both the player and the team in a state of uncertainty.
Betts described feeling like he’s playing “uphill” at this point, suggesting he knows he’s not going to be at 100% as the season begins.
This vague status raises serious questions about how much time he might miss or how effective he can be early in the season.
The Impact on the Dodgers
If Mookie Betts is forced to miss Opening Day or starts the season at less than full strength, the Dodgers could face significant challenges.
Betts is a key figure in the Dodgers’ lineup, not just for his batting but also for his defensive skills and leadership on the field.
Having already played without Freddie Freeman and Betts during the Tokyo Series, the Dodgers managed to secure two wins over the Chicago Cubs. Still, maintaining that momentum over a long season without Betts will be difficult.
Fans and analysts know that losing Betts — even temporarily — could derail the team’s plan to defend their World Series title and stay ahead in the always-competitive National League.
His ability to hit, steal bases, and play multiple defensive positions makes him irreplaceable in the Dodgers’ lineup.
