Dodgers' Mookie Betts Out Lineup vs Yankees Due Toe Injury

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Mookie Betts is out of the lineup for Friday's series opener against the New York Yankees due to a toe/foot injury, with the team planning to conduct X-rays to assess the issue. Miguel Rojas will replace Betts at shortstop and bat ninth during the matchup, marking a significant absence for the Dodgers as they face a World Series rematch. The Dodgers, who are currently leading the NL West by two games, have been dealing with numerous injuries this season, with an IL payroll of $102 million, and Betts’ absence adds to their challenges. While Betts had previously missed time due to a mystery illness earlier in the season, this injury is a new development, and the team has not detailed the severity or expected recovery time. The Dodgers have struggled recently with a 2-3 record over their last five games but maintain a strong division lead. Betts’ potential shielding from facing left-handed pitcher Max Fried, against whom his OPS is low, could be a strategic consideration, but the injury now appears to be the primary reason for his absence.