In the bright lights of LA sports media, a host sympathized with Mookie Betts. Why so? Well, that’s because Betts has been overshadowed by Shohei Ohtani. However, someone on the inside has spoken out against the story, supporting Betts with elegance and conviction.
As ESPN’s live mics picked up every word, a direct question about Mookie Betts and Ohtani cut through the normal glow-up chatter, revealing the Dodgers’ superstar mix. And just at the right time, Kirsten Watson from SportsNet LA spoke up.
When the host of the ESPN show said, “I feel sorry for Mookie Betts. He’s a star, but no matter what he does, he can’t surpass Shohei, right?” Kristen Watson didn’t hold up and gave a straight answer, “But he’s still a star. I think he’s surpassed Shohei in his way. Whether he’s playing right field or shortstop, he’s top class.” Tbh, she is right.
The Dodgers turned their slump around on April 14, 2025, owing to their dynamic combo. The rally began with a single by Shohei Ohtani and a stunning solo home run in the third. In the first inning, Mookie Betts smashed a two-run home run to give the club an early lead. The two of them helped LA overcome Colorado 5–3. The correct offensive and momentum lifted them out of their slump.
And that’s exactly what Watson meant. Both are important, playing their own game. Also, MC didn’t stop there. He further asked, “Shohei always attracts attention. Isn’t it difficult for Mookie (Betts) and Freddie (Freeman) to play together?” To which Watson replied, “It might be difficult on other teams. If there are players who want to be the star or are used to being treated like a star, I think it would be difficult because he (Ohtani) will take over everything.”
And she told MC why the Dodgers are different from the other clubs. “But the Dodgers’ clubhouse isn’t always like that. The Dodgers attract humble stars. There’s no ‘I’m the star’ kind of atmosphere.”
And we have seen how the players support each other. Early this season, Ohtani said, “I was looking for a good pitch to hit, but also making sure Mookie [Betts] gets an at-bat.”
But beneath that, Mookie Betts is facing the toughest time of his career. This is leading to questions about his spot as the shortstop in key moments. However, the Dodgers continue to have faith, which shows exactly what Watson tried to say when she said the Dodgers aren’t like other clubs.
No Ego, Just Faith: Dodgers Keep Betts at SS Despite Slow Slump
The Dodgers remain cool and confident even as Mookie Betts suffers through offensive problems. They are strong enough to handle tough times, keep grounded, and believe that bad form is only temporary.
Jun 2, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts (50) is greeted by first base Freddie Freeman (5) of the after hitting a solo home run in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Betts has only hit .185 in his last 30 games, with only two home runs and 12 RBIs, according to Sports Illustrated. His career lows this season (.244/.315/.381) reveal that he has been having trouble on offense, but the Dodgers are not changing his position.
Dave Roberts, the manager, said that steadiness was important: “I just can’t see that you go out there and stick him in right field tonight … or he goes to second base and he’s going to go on a heater. That’s hard for me to kind of imagine. But it’s a fair ask. I just don’t see that as the case.”
That confidence shows in the clubhouse atmosphere, which is humble, helpful, and steady. There is no star-strut routine here, just like Watson said. Instead, players lean in, support each other, and hold on. Betts might be in a bad mood, but in a clubhouse like this, everyone shares their problems, talks about them, and then gets over them together.
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