Dave Roberts and the Los Angeles Dodgers are ready to kick off the 2025 MLB season with a special matchup at the Tokyo Dome. The game promises to be an epic showdown with most of the reigning World Series champions expected to play—though Mookie Betts will not be in the starting lineup.
Speaking to the Orange County Register ahead of Opening Day in Tokyo, Roberts explained that Mookie Betts wouldn’t be available for the game against the Cubs. “He’s been really sick, lost some weight, so we were trying to get him hydrated,” Roberts said, confirming earlier reports.
Betts was reportedly battling flu-like symptoms prior to the team’s departure for Tokyo. Unfortunately, his condition worsened during the long flight, ruling him out for both games against the Cubs.
He also missed the exhibition matches against the Yomiuri Giants and Hanshin Tigers. To expedite his recovery, the Dodgers have decided to send Betts back to Los Angeles with hopes that he will be ready for the second series of the MLB regular season, set to take place at home against the Tigers.
Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers takes batting practice ahead of Game Four of the 2024 World Series at Yankee Stadium on October 29, 2024 in New York City.
Will the Dodgers struggle without Betts in their season opener?
During spring training, Betts had limited opportunities but managed 29 plate appearances, one home run, and three RBIs. His projections for the 2025 season include over 520 plate appearances, 129 hits, and at least 84 runs. Without Betts in the lineup, the Dodgers lose one of their top hitters but will need to rely on their depth to fill the gap.
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Dodgers vs Cubs H2H
In recent matchups, the Dodgers and Cubs last faced off in Los Angeles during the 2024 season. The Dodgers lost that series 1-2, securing a 10-8 win in the opening game before dropping the last two contests 3-6 and 4-10. Notably, the last series the Dodgers won against the Cubs was at Wrigley Field in 2023.
