Mookie Betts’ health has become a pressing concern for the Los Angeles Dodgers, as his prolonged illness and significant weight loss raise serious questions ahead of their home opener. After being scratched from Sunday night’s Freeway Series game against the Angels, Betts revealed he has lost nearly 20 pounds, now weighing 157 pounds, due to an undiagnosed stomach ailment. This issue, which began before the team’s trip to Japan, has prevented him from keeping solid food down.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Mookie Betts Scared To Eat
“I’m tired of sitting, tired of throwing up, tired of doing all this. I just really want to play,” Betts expressed via Dodger Insider on X. Despite feeling physically strong otherwise, the constant nausea and inability to eat has left him “scared to eat,” with his body “eating itself.”
Medical tests, including bloodwork and vital signs, have returned normal results, but the stomach issues persist. Team doctors have prescribed a new medication to alleviate his symptoms, and further testing is planned. The eight-time All-Star, who hasn’t played since March 11, acknowledged the mental strain of the uncertainty surrounding his condition. His availability for Thursday’s home opener against the Tigers remains uncertain. “It’s just hard to fathom not eating and going to play a game,” Betts said. “So it looks like I’m just going to be light for a little bit. Maybe I play uphill a little bit for the beginning of the season.”
The Dodgers’ medical staff, led by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, is taking a cautious approach to Betts’ recovery. ElAttrache emphasized the risk of dehydration leading to muscle strains, which could result in extended absences. “You have Mookie come out here, tear an oblique or hamstring, you can lose him for six weeks,” ElAttrache told the Los Angeles Times.
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Betts will not play on Monday and did not rule out the possibility of him missing Opening Day. For now, Miguel Rojas is expected to fill in at shortstop. While the Dodgers recognize the importance of a healthy Betts for their championship aspirations, the lack of a diagnosis and his significant weight loss are causing growing concern, particularly as Betts himself questions how long he can perform without proper nourishment.