Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts is currently battling an illness that places his availability for Opening Day against the Chicago Cubs in jeopardy. Manager Dave Roberts has expressed concerns about Betts being ready for the highly anticipated game scheduled for Tuesday in Japan.

Betts’ Current Condition

After experiencing flu-like symptoms shortly before the team’s departure to Japan from Arizona, Betts has struggled to regain his strength. Despite participating in a light workout session on Sunday, he exhibited noticeable fatigue, showing the effects of his illness.

“Really showed some fatigue, understandably so,” said Roberts. “We’ll see how he comes in tomorrow. He should be here for the workout. We’ll try to do a little more tomorrow.”

Upcoming Assessments

Roberts indicated that substantial improvement would be necessary for Betts to take the field against the Cubs. He outlined the key factors to consider:

• Betts must demonstrate he can participate fully in practice without experiencing fatigue.
• The training staff’s evaluation will significantly influence the decision regarding his lineup status.

“To be able to go through an entire workout and not feel that same fatigue would give us a chance,” Roberts noted. “But anything outside of that, I just don’t think our training staff would feel good about that.”

Impact on Team and Transition

As the Dodgers gear up for the new season, Betts is making a full transition to the shortstop position after spending most of his career in right field and at second base. Last season, he proved invaluable to the Dodgers’ success, hitting .289 with 19 home runs and 75 RBIs, contributing to the team’s World Series victory.

Given Betts’ significance to the squad, the organization is emphasizing cautious management of his health.

“We’re really trying to be mindful of not just Opening Day,” Roberts stated. “Not putting him in harm’s way. … We don’t want to put him in position where he could get hurt.”