Dodgers Star Mookie Betts Exits Game with Back Injury

Shortstop left Saturday's game against the Nationals in the first inning due to right lower back pain.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 9:35pm

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Los Angeles Dodgers star shortstop Mookie Betts exited in the middle of the first inning of Saturday's game against the Washington Nationals due to right lower back pain, the club said. Betts apparently was injured while running the bases after drawing a walk and scoring on Freddie Freeman's two-run double. Betts slowly walked toward the Dodgers' dugout after scoring, and Miguel Rojas replaced him at shortstop.

Why it matters

Betts is a key player for the Dodgers, and any injury to him could have a significant impact on the team's performance this season. The Dodgers are hoping the injury is not serious and that Betts will be able to return to the lineup soon.

The details

Betts, 33, is batting just .179 (5-for-28) with two homers and seven RBIs in eight games so far this season. The Dodgers did not provide any further details on the extent of Betts' injury, but a further update is expected after the game.

  • Betts exited the game in the middle of the first inning on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Mookie Betts

A 33-year-old star shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Freddie Freeman

The Dodgers' first baseman who hit a two-run double that scored Betts before he exited the game.

Miguel Rojas

The Dodgers' shortstop who replaced Betts in the field after he left the game.

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What’s next

The Dodgers are expected to provide an update on the severity of Betts' back injury after the game.

The takeaway

Betts' injury is a concerning development for the Dodgers, who are relying on the star shortstop to lead their offense this season. The team will be closely monitoring his status and hoping the injury is not serious enough to keep him out for an extended period.