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Dodgers Shift Ohtani to Leadoff as Betts Hits Career-Low Numbers

Betts has declined to a .235 average with a .667 OPS after moving back to the No. 2 spot.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 26: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers is seen in the dugout before playing the New York Yankees during Game Two of the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium on October 26, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - JULY 28: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates after scoring in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on July 28, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Aug 5, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow (31) delivers to the plate in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) watches warmups before the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Overview

  • On August 3 against the Rays, manager Dave Roberts moved Shohei Ohtani back into the leadoff spot and dropped Mookie Betts to the No. 2 position.
  • In his 11 starts as the leadoff hitter, Betts went 8-for-43 with a .498 OPS and was hitless in his final 14 at-bats before the switch.
  • Betts enters play on August 5 with a .235 batting average and .667 OPS, marking the lowest marks of his career.
  • Roberts and teammates have pointed to lingering mechanical adjustments and the mental toll of the slump while reaffirming their confidence in Betts.
  • The Dodgers expect Max Muncy to rejoin the lineup early in the upcoming homestand as they seek to bolster their offense.