Betts Out with Oblique Strain; Kim Recalled by Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed infielder Mookie Betts on the 10-day injured list due to an oblique strain. In a corresponding roster move, utility player Hyeseong Kim has been recalled from the minor leagues. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the injury, noting that it typically requires a recovery timeline of several weeks for position players.
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
Mookie Betts, 33, will miss time due to an oblique strain. Oblique strains are particularly challenging for baseball players, especially position players, given the intense rotational movements involved in hitting. Even minor strains often require several weeks of recovery to significantly reduce the risk of re-injury.
The standard recovery period for such an injury often ranges from 4 to 6 weeks, with a more significant strain potentially extending an absence through May.
Should a rehabilitation assignment be required, this could further prolong Betts's time away from the major league roster. Manager Dave Roberts, however, has expressed hope for Betts's return sooner than the typical 4-6 week recovery period.
Team Impact
Betts's absence is expected to significantly impact the team, especially regarding his defensive contributions at shortstop. During the 2025 season, Betts had recorded a 104 wRC+ and established himself as a solid defensive presence at the position.
While the Dodgers possess considerable offensive depth, with players like Andy Pages showing strong early-season performance to potentially mitigate Betts's batting absence in the short term, his defensive role at shortstop is highlighted as a critical factor that will be missed.
Shortstop Coverage and Player Adjustments
In Betts's absence, Miguel Rojas, 37, is anticipated to step in and cover shortstop duties. Rojas has seen reduced playing time at the position in recent years.
Hyeseong Kim is also expected to share shortstop duties with Rojas. Meanwhile, prospect Alex Freeland is projected to primarily continue playing second base.
Hyeseong Kim's Elevated Role
Hyeseong Kim, 27, has been recalled from the minor leagues. Since being optioned, Kim put up impressive numbers in six Triple-A games, recording a .346 batting average, .438 on-base percentage, and .385 slugging percentage.
His wRC+ of 95 in 71 games for Los Angeles last year was considered acceptable for a utility player. Kim is expected to receive frequent playing time at shortstop, particularly when facing right-handed pitching.
Against left-handed pitching, Miguel Rojas at shortstop and Santiago Espinal at second base are considered likely options. The team may also explore providing Freeland or Kim with playing opportunities against left-handed pitchers, potentially by resting Max Muncy. Freeland is a switch-hitter but has had limited exposure to left-handed pitching in his MLB career.