After the Tokyo Series, it is now the Freeway Series, but Mookie Betts is nowhere to be seen on the field. Reports during the Tokyo Series indicated his return within days. That few days are gone, and even the first game of the Freeway Series against the Angels concluded. But where is Mookie Betts? Are the Dodgers going to get him by the opening day?

Well, the Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, does not sound confident enough. So, what’s going on with the Betts? Could the team afford to lose him for an extended period?

As per the MLB insider Fredo Cervantes, “Mookie Betts vomited after having breakfast this morning. Betts has not been able to eat a full meal for over a week.” Betts reportedly lost 25 pounds since he left for the spring training. He was 175 Ibs then, now weighing 150 Ibs. Not a good indicator. Moreover, with the player to his ability who is coming with 19 HRs and 75 RBIs from the last year remained too risky to lose.

So, what are the team’s thoughts with Betts?

“I don’t think long-term, I’m not too concerned,” Roberts said. “He’s not going to play tomorrow. As for the home opener, we’ll just take it day by day.”

Yes, this update does not sound great for the team and the fans. While previously Roberts was confident about getting Betts back after the Tokyo Series, his opening-day availability is now in doubt. While Betts will start on the injured list if he doesn’t get fit before the opening day, are the Dodgers immune enough to replace him? It will be challenging to replace a 7x Silver Slugger winner.

Probable options to replace Mookie Betts

Enough words are written about how good the Dodgers’ pitching lineup is and how they can easily replace the injured ones. However, what about their strength in replacing Betts? Miguel Rojas is the first name coming up. He already replaced Betts in the Tokyo Series. Also, in the last year, Rojas replaced Betts after the latter’s injury. In 103 games last year, he batted at .283.

Hence, the 36-year-old veteran might be a short-term option for Betts. Remember his throw to the first plate in game 2 of the Tokyo Series?

The team got another veteran to replace Betts. Chris Taylor.

Yes, the veteran utility player can be another potent option. His injury-ridden 2024, though, remains a concern for the Dodgers. Last year, he played only 87 games cut short due to injuries, and he hit .202 BA, his lowest ever since 2015. Hence, the Dodgers have a few options to replace Betts, but someone equal to Betts’ ability?

Well, no one for now. It complements Roberts’ desperation about why they are yet to place Betts on the injured list. The Dodgers are all set to field the best-contending team sans Mookie Betts. Once he is back, there should be no holding back for the team this year.

Do you think Betts can be made available by the opening day? Let us know in the comments below.