Dodgers Keep Mookie Betts Atop Lineup Despite Season Slump

Mookie Betts, the Los Angeles Dodgers' shortstop and eight-time All-Star, is enduring one of the worst slumps of his career in the 2025 season, batting .236 with notable struggles since June. Despite his offensive challenges, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has firmly kept Betts in a top lineup spot, expressing strong confidence in him as the team's best option. Betts himself has acknowledged the difficulties, stating that his focus has shifted from salvaging his season to helping the team win on a game-by-game basis. The Dodgers have explored positional flexibility for Betts, who transitioned from outfielder to full-time shortstop last season, but currently view him primarily as their shortstop. To aid Betts, former teammate J.D. Martinez visited him to provide guidance at the plate amid his slump. With the Dodgers facing a losing record since the All-Star break and an inconsistent offense, Betts' performance remains critical to their playoff aspirations as they prepare for a key series against the Toronto Blue Jays.