The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their division with a solid 93-69 record and went on to capture the World Series title, even though Mookie Betts didn't quite deliver his usual offensive fireworks.
Since joining the Dodgers in 2020, Betts has been a cornerstone of their lineup. However, in 2025, his numbers dipped a bit.
He posted a .258/.326/.406 slash line, with 20 home runs and 82 RBIs. His wRC+ of 104 was the lowest of his career and his time with the Dodgers.
Despite the drop in offensive stats, Betts remained a key player thanks to his stellar defense at shortstop, showing off his Gold Glove-caliber skills.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is optimistic about Betts bouncing back at the plate in 2026, aiming for numbers closer to his career 136 wRC+.
Reflecting on Betts' previous season, Roberts noted, "Last year started differently with the Tokyo trip and some health challenges. But he had a great offseason. He’s in a good place mentally and physically."
Roberts isn't worried about Betts, considering last year an anomaly. If Betts can combine his defensive prowess with a return to form at the plate, we could be looking at an MVP-caliber season. But for Betts, the focus remains on helping the Dodgers win games, with any accolades being secondary.
"Absolutely, I have no doubt about it," Roberts said about Betts' MVP potential. "His main goal is to help us win a championship. Everything else will follow."
Betts has been working on his swing, mentality, and body movement during the offseason to become a more potent force with the bat.
As for the Dodgers' lineup, while Shohei Ohtani is set to lead off, Betts is slotted in the third spot. Roberts is still figuring out who will bat second and fourth, but he plans to keep the top four spots consistent, regardless of the opposing pitcher's hand.
Roberts believes Betts fits perfectly in the three-hole. "I like him in the number three spot because he brings on-base skills, can get hits, drive in runs, and acts as a versatile tool in the lineup," Roberts explained.
With Betts poised for a strong comeback and the Dodgers' lineup shaping up, fans have plenty to be excited about as the new season approaches.