Mookie Betts Has Epic Quote to Playing Shortstop for Dodgers

Feb 21, 2025; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts (50) directs the outfielders during the first inning against the Chicago Cubs at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images | Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Mookie Betts is making a statement this spring about his move back to shortstop.

“This is not like a vengeance tour,” Betts said to USA TODAY Sports. “It’s about proving a lot of people wrong. But more than anything, it’s about proving myself right.

“So many years, I just didn’t believe in myself.”

Betts has already built an impressive career as an eight-time All-Star, six-time Gold Glove winner, seven-time Silver Slugger, MVP, and batting champion.

But what means the most to him? Winning three World Series titles.

Still, the accolades aren’t enough.

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The Dodgers initially moved Betts to the infield during spring training last year with plans for him to play second base. But when Gavin Lux struggled with throws across the diamond, the team made the switch, shifting Betts to shortstop. A hand injury disrupted his season, and when he returned, he was back in right field.

This offseason, Betts took the initiative, starting the conversation about a return to shortstop. He isn’t chasing recognition for playing the position. He was drafted as a shortstop but never stuck there, moving to second base and then right field with the Red Sox.

With Boston, Dustin Pedroia was the second baseman leaving Betts as his backup and really forcing the Red Sox to move him to right field.

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“When I was moved to right field, I believed in myself and got pretty good out there,” Betts said. “So, I’m taking the same concept. I got the opportunity now.

“And I’m going to make the best of it.”

The difference this time? Preparation.

Betts worked with Troy Tulowitzki in Texas, trained with first base coach Chris Woodward in Arizona, and took daily ground balls at local high schools near his Los Angeles home.

"Tulo is definitely a huge part of who I am today, especially playing shortstop."

Mookie Betts spent time this offseason learning from one of the best, Troy Tulowitzki:#SpringTrainingTour | #Dodgers
🔗 https://t.co/3lNMHjejQd pic.twitter.com/LpxMGTRvOG

— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) February 22, 2025

“I just feel so prepared now,” Betts said. “I can go home and sleep and not stare at video all day trying to figure things out. I’m giving it my all so I can lay my head down at night knowing that my work prepared me for any balls coming my way.”

He knows some believe he belongs in the outfield, but he has a simple message for the doubters.

“I know I can do this. I really do,” Betts said. “I’m excited to prove people wrong.”

For more Dodgers news, head over to Dodgers on SI.