Dodgers have difficult Mookie Betts decision to make

One of the MLB’s top teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers face an interesting lineup decision with Shohei Ohtani set to return from the injured list Wednesday.

Ohtani has missed a little more than a week after being placed on the 15-day IL with a biceps issue, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Tuesday that the superstar will be activated.

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Ohtani has been the Dodgers’ regular leadoff hitter throughout the season. However, his absence has given Mookie Betts an opportunity to bat first, and the veteran has taken full advantage.

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Betts finding his stride

Jul 25, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts (50) throws out New York Mets third baseman Bo Bichette (not pictured) on a ground ball during the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Roberts said Tuesday that, “as of now,” Ohtani will return to the leadoff spot. However, he also acknowledged that the Dodgers are considering a platoon at the top of the batting order.

Under that scenario, Ohtani would lead off against right-handed pitchers, while Betts would move into the top spot against left-handers.

There is a case for keeping Betts in the role, at least against certain matchups. Ohtani has struggled recently, batting .139/.262/.222 with two extra-base hits and no RBIs over his last nine games.

Betts, meanwhile, has been outstanding since moving to the top of the order. During Ohtani’s absence, the 33-year-old went 9-for-16 with four doubles, two home runs and six RBIs across four games.

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Dodgers face a tough choice

Betts has only batted leadoff in six games this season, but his recent production has made the decision more complicated for Roberts and the Dodgers.

His September numbers have been particularly impressive. Betts is hitting .373/.468/.746 with 13 extra-base hits and 20 RBIs over 17 games this month, showing the type of production the Dodgers were hoping to get from him after a difficult season.

The Dodgers have plenty of flexibility because of the depth throughout their lineup, and their record gives them some breathing room. Los Angeles enters Wednesday at 97-60, comfortably leading the National League West and sitting just one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers for the best record in the National League.

The Dodgers will face the San Diego Padres in the second game of their three-game series Wednesday, with five games remaining in the regular season. The return of Ohtani could give Los Angeles another major boost, but it also leaves Roberts with an intriguing decision at the top of his lineup.

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