Dave Roberts Not Expecting Mookie Betts to Immediately Be High-Level Shortstop for Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is keeping realistic expectations when it comes to his new shortstop, Mookie Betts.
Kess than a week ago, the Dodgers moved Betts to shortstop to replace a struggling Gavin Lux. Since Betts' primary infield experience comes at second base, Roberts is utilizing patience for the transition. However, Roberts is confident that Betts will succeed there with time.
“I feel good about it. I’ll feel better about it as he continues to get more repetitions. Certainly, he hasn’t played as much shortstop throughout his baseball career as he has second base. Different angles. The throws."
— Dave Roberts, via Bill Plunkett of the OC Register.
Roberts also shared how Betts has approached his new role since he was named the 'permanent' shortstop for now.
“I do know he is embracing it, he is excited about the challenge. Players like Mookie get bored sometimes, so a different challenge is exciting. It’s one of those things, though, you’ve just got to let that process play out until you know more. So if there’s somebody I would bet on, it would be Mookie. But to go out there and expect him to be Miguel Rojas right now is something that is not realistic.”
— Dave Roberts, via Bill Plunkett of the OC Register.
With the kind of competitor Betts is, he's already stated that his goal is to win a Gold Glove at shortstop. The six-time Gold Glove winner has excelled in the outfield, and is now looking to do the same from the infield.
Betts has already taken initiative by learning under Miguel Rojas and taking in the knowledge of the Gold Glove caliber shortstp. With Betts' reputation and work ethic, it wouldn't be surprising to see him succeed at shortstop fairly quickly, even if not immediately.
