In the midst of a celebratory birthday, Mookie Betts had one thing on his mind – hitting. The Los Angeles Dodgers star turned 32 on Monday, but his 0-for-4 performance in Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres was a stark reminder of his recent postseason struggles.
Despite being an eight-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Betts has been mired in a slump, going 2-for-31 in the Dodgers’ last three postseason series. His current drought has reached 22 playoff at-bats without a hit, tied for the fourth-longest such streak by a former MVP.
Manager Dave Roberts believes Betts’ past postseason shortcomings are starting to affect his current performance. “It’s bleeding into his at-bats,” Roberts said. To combat this, Roberts plans to have a conversation with Betts, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present moment and preparing mentally for the next game.
Undeterred, Betts took an estimated 400 swings during Monday’s workout, deliberately targeting right-center field off a high-velocity pitching machine. He remains committed to working his way out of the slump, acknowledging that shutting down and clearing his head is not an option. “If I turn my brain off, it’s going to get worse,” he said.
The Dodgers desperately need Betts to regain his form, especially with star first baseman Freddie Freeman’s status uncertain due to a sprained right ankle. Roberts is counting on Betts, along with other players, to step up and deliver. “He’s got to be Mookie,” Roberts said. “I don’t expect any more than he’s done over his eight- or nine-year career.”
Historically, Betts has excelled in high-pressure situations during the regular season, but his postseason struggles have been a departure from his usual form. Despite the weight of his recent performances, Betts remains focused on the future, aware that he can’t change the past. “Only thing I can really do is look forward,” he said.
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