Mookie Betts Shines as Dodgers Leadoff Hitter Amid Ohtani Absence

With Shohei Ohtani sidelined, Mookie Betts has taken the leadoff spot for the Dodgers, posting a hot stretch that includes multiple multi-hit games and power bursts. Manager Dave Roberts says Betts’ performance may influence lineup decisions once Ohtani returns, while the team remains focused on ma…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 20 Sep 2026 14:10:21 GMT

When Shohei Ohtani is on the injured list, the Los Angeles Dodgers face a dilemma: keep the two‑way star in his traditional leadoff role or give the hot bat of Mookie Betts the top spot. Over the last week, Betts has proven he can fill that role, delivering a series of standout performances that have kept the Dodgers in the playoff hunt.

Betts’ Hot Streak in the Top of the Order

Since August 5, Betts has been batting .336 in 39 games, hitting nine home runs, 12 doubles and driving in 31 runs. His 1.008 OPS ranks among the league’s best, and his recent games have been especially impressive: a 2‑for‑4 outing with an RBI and a double in Miami; a 3‑for‑4 night that included two homers against the Giants; and a flawless 4‑for‑4 performance with three doubles and two RBIs in a 10‑4 win over San Francisco.

These results have pushed his season average to .261 and his OPS to .785, a marked improvement from the slump that plagued him earlier in the season. "I just think he’s physically in a better spot than he has been," manager Dave Roberts said after the 10‑4 victory. "The ball’s coming off the right way."

Ohtani’s Uncertain Return

Ohtani, who has spent the past week on the injured list with a right‑arm and left‑knee injury, is expected back next week. However, his recent 6‑for‑52 slump before the IL stint raises questions about whether he will regain his leadoff form immediately. Roberts acknowledged that the lineup could shift on a game‑by‑game basis once Ohtani returns, depending on his health and match‑up considerations.

"Until he gets back, or when he gets back, then I’ll kind of potentially read and react," Roberts said. He added that the decision will also factor in how Ohtani performs against right‑ or left‑handed pitching, and that the team may experiment in October.

Betts’ Perspective and the Team’s Strategy

Betts, who has played nearly 1,100 career games as a leadoff hitter, said he is comfortable in the role. "I’ll hit wherever," he told reporters after the Giants game. "There’s a guy named Shohei that needs to be up there and get us going." Yet he also expressed excitement at returning to the top of the order: "Going back up there, it is fun. Kind of feels like home."

For the Dodgers, the priority is keeping Betts productive, whether he remains at the top or moves deeper into the lineup. His recent surge has been a key factor in the team’s 13‑of‑16 record in the final stretch of the season, a performance that has kept the Dodgers in the race for a first‑round playoff bye.

What Happens Next?

The Dodgers will monitor Ohtani’s recovery closely. If he returns fully healthy, the team may keep him in the leadoff spot, relying on his dual threat as a pitcher and hitter. If Ohtani’s performance remains shaky, Betts could become the default leadoff hitter for the remainder of the season and into the playoffs.

Regardless of the decision, the Dodgers’ focus remains on maintaining momentum and ensuring that Betts continues to hit well. The team’s next games will determine whether Betts’ hot streak is a temporary blip or the start of a sustained offensive push.

Why This Matters

Lineup construction is critical for playoff success, and the Dodgers’ ability to adapt to injuries while keeping offensive production high will be a key factor in their postseason run.

Key facts

• Betts’ hot streak as leadoff hitter keeps Dodgers competitive
• Ohtani’s injury status creates lineup uncertainty
• Manager Roberts plans game‑by‑game adjustments
• Betts’ historical success as a leadoff hitter gives the team flexibility
• Late‑season surge driven by Betts’ offensive output

Why it matters

The Dodgers’ ability to adapt their lineup in response to key injuries can make the difference between a playoff berth and a missed postseason. Betts’ performance offers a reliable offensive engine while Ohtani’s recovery remains uncertain.

Frequently asked questions

Will Ohtani return to the leadoff spot?

It depends on his health and performance; the Dodgers may keep him there if he regains form.

How has Betts performed recently?

He’s batting .336 with nine homers and 12 doubles in 39 games.

What is the Dodgers’ plan if Ohtani stays injured?

Betts is likely to remain the leadoff hitter, with the team focusing on maintaining his hot streak.

Does Betts want to stay at the top of the lineup?

He’s comfortable in the role and has expressed enjoyment returning to it.

Sources

• [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Mookie Betts thriving batting first: Should he hit leadoff for Dodgers instead of Shohei Ohtani?”