Dodgers star forced to skip Tokyo Series after sudden illness derails plans, leaving fans and team stunned!

The Los Angeles Dodgers will be short-handed as they face the Chicago Cubs to start the season.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that utility man Mookie Betts will not play in the Tokyo Series due to an illness. Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reported that Betts has lost approximately 15 pounds, leaving the Dodgers concerned that he may be susceptible to injury. Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reported that infielder Miguel Rojas will start at short for both games instead.

Betts had another stellar season for the Dodgers in 2024. He posted a .289/.372/.491 batting line in his 516 plate appearances, hitting 19 homers and 24 doubles while stealing 16 bases. Betts was even more valuable to the Dodgers due to his defensive versatility, seeing time at second, short and right field last season.

Rojas had one of his best seasons in the majors last year. He posted a solid .283/.337/.410 batting line in his 337 plate appearances, hitting six homers and 21 doubles while stealing eight bases. The utility man saw most of his action at short, but also spent time at second and third.

Fortunately for the Dodgers, Betts is expected to be ready for Opening Day on March 27. Plunkett also reported that the Dodgers are considering sending Betts back from Japan early to ensure that he is ready for the domestic opener. The Dodgers have the depth to be able to handle Betts’ brief absence, with utility man Tommy Edman capable of handling second while other utility players — Enrique Hernandez and Chris Taylor — can slot into the mix as needed.