The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed outfielder Mookie Betts on the 10-day injured list after an MRI confirmed an oblique strain. Manager Dave Roberts announced on Sunday that Betts could be sidelined for four to six weeks, although he expects the time missed to be on the lower end of that range.
Betts’ Injury and Absence
Betts was forced to exit in the middle of the first inning on Saturday during the Dodgers’ 10-5 victory over the Washington Nationals. The reason cited for his early departure was right lower back pain, but further tests revealed the oblique strain.
Miguel Rojas replaced Betts in the game and will take over the second spot in the lineup for Sunday’s game against the Nationals.
Hyeseong Kim Called Up
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers have called up infielder Hyeseong Kim from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Kim, who played 71 games for the Dodgers last season and hit .280, was not part of the club after spring training.
However, he has been impressive in the minors, hitting .346 (9-for-26) in six games at Oklahoma City. Kim could see time at shortstop during Betts’ absence.
Betts’ Struggles at the Plate
Mookie Betts, a former American League batting champion, is off to a slow start this season. After posting a career-low .258 batting average last year, he has struggled in 2026, batting just .179 (5-for-28) in eight games. Despite his struggles, he has contributed with two home runs and seven RBIs so far this season.
The Dodgers will need to adjust in Betts’ absence, but the hope is that his recovery will be swift and he can return to his usual form soon.
