The Los Angeles Dodgers are 2-1 without Mookie Betts this season and are poised to finish their weekend series against the Washington Nationals with him still not in the lineup. Betts last played on Tuesday before succumbing to lower back stiffness.
He was held out of the lineup for the finale against the Oakland Athletics with the hope of playing in the Dodgers’ home opener. Manager Dave Roberts deemed his all-world outfielder day-to-day and downplayed concern.
Despite Betts missing the afternoon matchup, Roberts was encouraged by his progress. However, it wasn’t enough for the 28-year-old to play Saturday, and after the Dodgers’ second consecutive win, Roberts effectively ruled Betts out again.