Betts' Recovery: Mookie Betts battled a severe stomach illness for roughly two weeks, preventing him from keeping solid food down and causing an 18-pound weight loss (from 175 to 157 lbs).
Return Timeline: After receiving an IV in Japan and being sent home early, Betts missed Sunday's exhibition game but returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Angels, playing shortstop and getting three at-bats.
Opening Day Status: Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated Betts has "turned a corner," is keeping food down, and feels "great." While taking it day-by-day, both Roberts and Betts expect him to play in Thursday's home opener against the Detroit Tigers.
Ohtani's Pitching: Shohei Ohtani is scheduled to throw off a mound again Saturday, restarting his build-up process towards returning as a starting pitcher. His pitching rehab was paused in February to focus on his readiness as a designated hitter for the season start.
May's Progress: Pitcher Dustin May, returning from injury, made his final spring training start Tuesday against the Angels, expected to pitch around five innings. Roberts praised May's improved emotional management on the mound.
Exhibition Result: The Los Angeles Angels defeated the Dodgers 5-4 in their March 24th exhibition game.
Why this matters: Betts is a critical component of the Dodgers' potent lineup and infield defense. Ohtani's eventual return to pitching is key to his unique value. May's comeback adds needed depth to the starting rotation. The health and availability of these stars significantly impact the Dodgers' championship aspirations.
Mookie Betts' recent health scare caused significant concern for the Dodgers. The illness, which struck during the team's trip to Tokyo for the season-opening series against the Cubs (which Betts missed), led to substantial weight loss and dehydration. Initially listed as doubtful for the upcoming stateside opener, Betts showed marked improvement upon returning to Los Angeles. He completed a full workout Monday, resumed eating solid foods, and felt well enough to play in Tuesday's final exhibition game. Manager Dave Roberts expressed encouragement, noting Betts' resilience and expectation to be ready for Thursday.
Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani's path back to a two-way role continues. After focusing solely on his designated hitter duties to start the season, Ohtani will resume throwing off a mound this Saturday. Roberts acknowledged this might feel like "starting over," and the team will proceed cautiously. Ohtani will need several bullpen sessions and simulated games to build up his starter's workload, as a traditional minor league rehab assignment isn't feasible while keeping him in the lineup. The timeline for his return to the rotation remains indefinite, with the priority being his ability to contribute both ways through the end of the 2025 season and potential postseason.
Adding to the positive pitching news, Dustin May is nearing his return to the big league mound after nearly two years sidelined by injury. His final spring start served as a crucial step, with Roberts highlighting his mental growth alongside his physical recovery.
Q: What exactly was wrong with Mookie Betts?
A: He suffered from a severe stomach illness that made him unable to keep solid food down for about two weeks, leading to significant weight loss and dehydration.
Q: Will Mookie Betts play on Opening Day?
A: All signs are currently positive. Both Betts and manager Dave Roberts are optimistic, and he returned to game action in the final exhibition match. His status will be confirmed closer to Thursday's game.
Q: When will Shohei Ohtani pitch in a game for the Dodgers?
A: There's no set date. He's restarting his mound work this week, but the build-up process will take time, involving bullpen sessions and simulated games before he's ready for a starter's workload in the regular season.
Dodgers Outlook: Fans can breathe a sigh of relief regarding Betts, though monitoring his stamina early in the season will be important. Ohtani's pitching return is progressing but won't be immediate. May's comeback is a welcome boost to the pitching staff.
Fantasy Impact: Fantasy baseball managers who drafted Betts should feel more confident but keep backup plans in mind for the first week. Ohtani remains a top DH, but his pitching points are still weeks or months away. May could be a valuable waiver wire pickup if he returns strong.
Who This Affects Most: Dodgers fans, fantasy baseball participants, and followers of MLB contending teams.
The Dodgers rely heavily on their star power. How crucial is a fully healthy Mookie Betts to the Dodgers' championship hopes this season? Let us know your thoughts!
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Los Angeles Times: Mookie Betts returns to Dodgers’ lineup against Angels ``
MLB Gameday: Dodgers vs. Angels Box Score (03/24/2025) ``
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