Former Boston Red Sox star Mookie Betts is the only active position player with three World Series rings. Should he add a fourth this year with the Los Angeles Dodgers, it could be his most satisfying because it would come amid his worst big-league season.
Betts ended an 0-for-22 slump Tuesday by going 3-for-4 in the Dodgers’ 12-6 win over the St. Louis Cardinals. The 2018 American League MVP had a double, two singles and a walk to end a career-worst five-game hitless streak.
MLB.com’s Sarah Wexler noted it’s been a tough season for Betts. It started “with a mysterious illness that saw him drop 18 pounds. He was recently away from the team following the death of his stepfather,” Wexler wrote.
Despite his breakout game Tuesday, Betts is hitting a career-worst .236. His on-base percentage (.308), slugging percentage (.361) and OPS (.669) also are all-time lows for the future Hall of Famer.
But the 32-year-old shortstop remains a fan favorite of the Dodgers faithful, who have showered him with a warm reception the last two nights, according to Wexler.
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“It’s been beautiful, so thank you to all the Dodger fans that just gave me that,” said Betts, per Wexler. “It’s super special. It’s the first time I’ve ever gotten anything like that. Obviously, I would prefer not to. But if I’m in this situation, then I know that Dodger Stadium is behind me. It’s just another thing to know that you’re supported.”
If Betts can get back to the form which made him an eight-time All-Star, the Dodgers could be well on their way to their third World Series title in the last six seasons. Los Angeles (66-48) has a three-game lead over the San Diego Padres in the National League West.
FanGraphs gives the Dodgers a 19.8% chance of winning the World Series, which are the best title odds for any MLB club.
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Featured image via Brad Penner/Imagn Images
