Dodgers News: Mookie Betts Set for 2026 Cactus League Debut; Dodgers Reveal New Lineup Spot
Dave Roberts confirms the All-Star shortstop will finally join Cactus League action as Los Angeles ramps up preparations for Opening Day.
GLENDALE, AZ—After Saturday’s split-squad action for the Los Angeles Dodgers, their skipper, Dave Roberts, let us know that one star player will be making his 2026 Cactus League debut tomorrow, and that’s All-Star shortstop, Mookie Betts.
Despite the Dodgers already playing a full week of Cactus League games and holding a 6-3 record as we head into March, Mookie Betts has been noticeably absent from the lineup.
Despite no injuries reported, Roberts explained earlier this week that Betts’ absence was by design and that he and the team wanted to give their veteran infielder a “normal” build-up this spring training.
“It’s load management and I wanted Mookie to kind of start a little bit later as far as not getting into spring training ready to go and use spring training to build up given it’s six weeks, so he’s building up nicely, so he’ll be in the lineup soon.”
Soon will now be tomorrow as the Dodgers return to Camelback Ranch to take on the Los Angeles Angels, and Betts is expected to hit and play shortstop.
Dodgers Plan to Slot Betts in the No. 3 Spot This Season
When Betts does make his return to tomorrow’s lineup, he’s expected to hit third in the batting order when the lineup is at full strength, according to Dave Roberts, putting him behind Shohei Ohtani and Kyle Tucker.
“I haven’t totally figured out two and four, but I like Mookie in the three.”
Betts has played only 66 games in the three-hole during his career, batting .267/.348/.453 with a 111 wRC+. However, the Dodgers are optimistic that a fresh opportunity in 2026 will help Betts improve. Manager Roberts even suggested earlier this spring that Betts could be in the MVP conversation.
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