Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Shocked by Mookie Betts’ Infield Play

Mookie can do it all!

Jul 30, 2020; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (left) with outfielder Mookie Betts against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the home opener at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

As the Dodgers prepare for the second half of the season, there are a lot of things to consider when it comes to adjusting towards this next step, and that includes realizations and reflections on how the team has performed to start the year. 

For Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, he has reached an epiphany that he didn't see coming - Mookie Betts is a really good infielder. 

Mookie was given a shot to start at second base for 20 games in the first half of the year, and it's needless to say that he played phenomenally. He's also had some stints at shortstop (12 games). 

The seven-time All-Star is known for his ability to dive in the outfield, but he has reached the point where the running takes a bit of a toll on him. 

"All those long jogs from right field to the dugout? Tracking all those balls in the outfield? [That] adds up and takes a toll...All the way out there and back [to the dugout] 18 times.”

Mookie Betts - The Los Angeles Times

His performance in the infield — his natural position coming into the league — has even shocked Dave Roberts. 

“He’s much better than I expected...I knew that he could play second base. I didn’t realize he could handle short the way he has. And, obviously, Shohei is the runaway MVP in baseball, but to have a guy that can play two middle infield spots, hit leadoff and be productive, what the value [is] for him for our ball club shouldn’t be lost.”

Dave Roberts - The Los Angeles Times

Betts' ability to be versatile has been extremely helpful for the Dodgers as they have had an injury bug in the clubhouse. And with Gavin Lux out for the year and Miguel Vargas being optioned to the minors, there only seems to be more opportunities for Betts to play inside the dirt.