Dodgers’ Mookie Betts Eyes Return to Form with New Lineup Strategy

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is currently evaluating the optimal batting order for his star-studded lineup, with a focus on positioning Mookie Betts for success. The potential shift comes after a challenging 2025 season for Betts, and as the team prepares for a potential three-peat attempt.

Betts Likely to Bat Third

Roberts indicated on Wednesday that Mookie Betts is likely to bat third in 2026, moving down one spot from his previous position. This adjustment would place new addition Kyle Tucker at second, batting behind Shohei Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman at fourth. However, Roberts noted he is still considering the optimal arrangement for the two and four spots.

A potential Dodgers lineup could look like this:

• Shohei Ohtani, DH
• Kyle Tucker, RF
• Mookie Betts, SS
• Freddie Freeman, 1B
• Will Smith, C
• Max Muncy, 3B
• Teóscar Hernández, LF
• Andy Pagés, CF
• Tommy Edman, 2B

Addressing Betts’ 2025 Performance

Betts’ 2025 season was below expectations, with a .258 batting average and a .732 OPS. His OPS+ of 104 was his lowest in a dozen major league seasons [1]. He acknowledged in August that his performance was beyond salvage, though he did see some improvement later in the season.

Several factors contributed to Betts’ struggles, including a stomach illness during spring training that caused him to lose approximately 18 pounds. He was forced to leave the Dodgers’ Tokyo Series early due to the illness [1].

Balancing Offense and Defense

Betts’ preparation for his first full season at shortstop may have also impacted his offensive performance. While he initially denied any correlation between his position change and hitting, he later admitted that focusing on his defense might have diverted time from offensive perform. This offseason, he was able to dedicate a more balanced approach to his preparation.

“I haven’t had any game action, so we’ll see if anything worked out,” Betts said. “But it’s really about getting back to basics. Understanding what I do best and trying to focus on that.”

Strategic Lineup Placement

Roberts believes batting third could benefit Betts by providing a “leadoff mentality” focused on getting on base, while also allowing him to leverage his run-producing capabilities. Having Ohtani and Tucker batting ahead of him, and Freeman behind him, could provide lineup protection and scoring opportunities.

“You’re more like a Swiss Army knife,” Roberts said. “I’m not tied to it, but I see him looking good in third place right now.”

Dodgers’ Confidence in Betts’ Rebound

The Dodgers remain confident that Betts’ 2025 season was an anomaly, and not indicative of a decline. His strong work ethic and track record support this belief. With a full offseason of preparation and a three-peat attempt on the horizon, both Betts and the Dodgers anticipate a stronger performance in 2026.

“Mookie only cares about winning,” Roberts stressed. “But when you’re trying to play a new position, it consumes you, and it’s understandable. I think he has control over that now. When you’re trying to catch up from the start, that’s tough, too. Right now, he had a full offseason. He’s in a great place. Now he can focus on staying strong, getting stronger, and helping the Dodgers win in 2026.”