Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Dodgers fans are anxiously awaiting the start of the 2025 season, but one of their biggest stars, Mookie Betts, is facing a tough personal challenge. Betts, who was slated to be in the lineup on Sunday, was a late scratch due to an ongoing issue that has plagued him for several weeks: severe stomach discomfort that makes it nearly impossible for him to keep food down. In a candid locker room interview, Betts opened up about the physical struggles he’s facing and how they’re impacting his preparation for the season.
“I’m feeling all right now,” Betts said, though his condition has been anything but simple. The issue, which began two days before the Dodgers’ trip to Tokyo, has left Betts unable to eat without throwing up. Despite this, he’s been determined to continue working out and staying in shape. “I feel great like my body feels great,” he said. “I’ve been able to work out… pretty much everything but eat, you know, which is strange.”
For the past few weeks, Mookie has been battling a weight loss issue, shedding 25 pounds since Spring Training. “You go you weigh yourself and you weigh 150 lbs. I mean before I left spring I was 175,” he explained. The inability to keep food down has left him in a tough spot, trying to balance the need for nourishment with the frustration of constantly throwing up after meals. “It’s hard to not eat,” he said, reflecting on the daily struggle of trying to fuel his body while simultaneously dealing with its rejection.
Despite the discomfort, Betts has remained focused on returning to the field. “I would still play,” he said, admitting that if he hadn’t thrown up that morning, he would’ve suited up. “If I didn’t throw today, absolutely I was in there. I had a great day yesterday, but I didn’t eat literally all day yesterday.”
Betts’ situation has been especially frustrating due to its ambiguity. Medical tests have come back clear, with all his vitals appearing healthy. “There’s no real explanation,” he said, acknowledging that his condition is an unusual one. Doctors have put him on new medication to calm his stomach, but as of now, there’s no definitive timeline for recovery.
The stomach issues are also mentally taxing for the star player, who noted how challenging it is not to be able to eat and still perform at a high level. “It’s just hard to fathom not eating and go and play a game,” he shared. “It looks like I’m just going to be light for a little bit… maybe I have to play uphill a little bit for the beginning of the season.”
Betts’ situation is further complicated by his readiness for Opening Day. While he wants to push through, he’s aware of the potential risks. “I weigh 150 lbs and that’s way underweight… do I want to really give myself that much of an uphill battle?” he questioned. Although his desire to play is clear, he’s also being cautious and realistic about what is best for his long-term health.
For now, Betts continues to manage his condition with a mix of rest, medication, and careful planning. “I just want to play, man,” he said. Dodgers fans can only hope that he’ll be back to full strength soon, as his health remains the priority.
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