Los Angeles Dodgers Superstar has Been Mentoring Braves Outfielder this Offseason
Over the years, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Atlanta Braves have had some iconic clashes during the postseason that have fueled a rivalry. However, it appears there's some mutual respect amongst the players, as well, as Mookie Betts has helped mentor Braves center fielder Michael Harris II this offseason.
Per David O'Brien of The Athletic, he recently reported that Harris II has been receiving mentorship from the former two-time World Series champion and 2018 American League MVP.
"He's been good to me. He's been a real good leader to me, just trying to keep my head on straight and teach me some different ways to go about life and stuff."
After winning the National League Rookie of The Year in 2022, Harris II is headed into his third season as the starting center fielder for the Braves and will look to continue the strong start that has been his MLB career.
Last season, Harris's sophomore campaign on the Braves was almost just as good as his teammate and reigning 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., as he finished the year narrowly behind him in almost every major hitting category.
Harris II finished last season slashing .293/.331/.477, collecting 18 home runs and 54 extra-base hits, 57 RBI's and stole 20 bags.
The only downfall of his offensive surge from last year was a disappointing performance in the postseason, as he failed to even collect a hit. Ironically, Betts had the same type of production last October, going hitless in 11 plate appearances.
Although Harris's offense failed to show last postseason, his defense was very much present as he made one of the most iconic plays of the 2023 playoffs, robbing Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos of what should've been an extra-base hit and throwing Bryce Harper to make it a double play, helping the Braves tie the NLDS 1-1.
With Harris II receiving mentorship from Betts, it will not only make him a better player mentally as Betts has been regarded as one of the best leaders in baseball, but having this level of expertise from of the current greats for a young star could be everything and could set him up for a promising campaign in 2024.
Important Braves Today Offseason Stories
2023 MLB Free Agent Rankings
2024 Atlanta Braves prospect rankings
Current Atlanta Braves 40-man roster
2024 International Free Agency tracker
Check out Braves Today on Socials!
Follow Braves Today on Twitter!
Like Braves Today on Facebook!
Check out the homepage for more Atlanta Braves News!
Subscribe to Braves Today on YouTube!
Get Exclusive Braves Merchandise