Dodgers Manager Expects Mookie Betts to Contend for MVP

Dave Roberts believes Betts will be in the running for the National League MVP award this season.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts claims he believes that star outfielder Mookie Betts will be in the conversation to win the National League MVP award this season. Roberts said Betts' main goal is to help the team win a championship, but whatever individual accolades come from that will be a bonus.

Why it matters

Mookie Betts is one of the Dodgers' top players, and if he can contend for the MVP award, it would further cement the Dodgers as one of the top teams in baseball. The Dodgers are seeking their third straight World Series title, and Betts' individual success could play a key role in that pursuit.

The details

Roberts said he has "no doubt" that Betts will be in the MVP conversation this year, citing Betts' strong defensive play at shortstop last season and expecting him to be even better offensively. Betts hit .258 with 20 home runs and 82 RBIs in 150 games for the Dodgers in 2025.

  • The Dodgers are set to begin spring training and prepare for the 2026 MLB season.

The players

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Mookie Betts

An eight-time MLB All-Star outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Shohei Ohtani

A two-time Dodgers MVP and three-time overall MVP who has won the award three seasons in a row.

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What they’re saying

“I have no doubt about it. The way [Betts] played shortstop last year, expecting him to get better and be better offensively this year. He will be in the MVP conversation this year... His main goal is to help us win a championship. Whatever falls out from there, that will happen. I just want him to focus on being healthy, helping us win, and whatever happens outside of that will happen.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager (Dodgers Nation)

What’s next

The Dodgers will begin spring training as they prepare to defend their back-to-back World Series titles and try to win a third straight championship.

The takeaway

Mookie Betts is one of the Dodgers' most valuable players, and if he can contend for the MVP award this season, it would further solidify the Dodgers as the team to beat in the National League as they seek their third straight World Series title.