Dodgers' Age Concerns Resurface After Betts' Injury

Mookie Betts' back issue highlights the challenges of an aging Dodgers roster.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 12:50am

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Mookie Betts, the 33-year-old Dodgers star, was forced to leave Saturday's game against the Nationals due to lower back pain, renewing concerns about the team's aging roster. The Dodgers have made efforts to address the issue, but Betts' injury serves as a reminder that their veteran players are closer to the end of their careers than the start.

Why it matters

The Dodgers have built a powerhouse roster, but their success hinges on the health and performance of their aging core players. Betts' injury, coming just eight games into the season, underscores the fragility of their situation and the challenges they may face in maintaining their championship aspirations.

The details

Betts left the game in the top of the first inning after scoring on a Freddie Freeman double. Manager Dave Roberts described the injury as 'more moderate than significant,' but said Betts is 'unlikely' to play in the series finale against the Nationals on Sunday. The Dodgers have taken steps to address the age issue, with players like Teoscar Hernandez and Max Muncy reporting to camp in better shape. However, Betts' setback serves as a reminder that age can catch up to even the most prepared players.

  • Betts left the game in the top of the first inning on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • The Dodgers are scheduled to play the Nationals in the series finale on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Mookie Betts

A 33-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who was forced to leave Saturday's game due to lower back pain.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who described Betts' injury as 'more moderate than significant.'

Freddie Freeman

A 36-year-old first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers who hit a double that scored Betts in the first inning.

Teoscar Hernandez

A 33-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who reported to camp in better shape this season.

Max Muncy

A 35-year-old infielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who also reported to camp in better shape this season.

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What they’re saying

“'Any time you miss, it's going to take some time to kind of get your footing.'”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

“'Disappointed for him because we were sort of starting to get going a little bit, and the way he's playing defense, and he's a big part of what we do.'”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The Dodgers will have to monitor Betts' recovery and determine if he needs to be placed on the injured list, which could be a setback for the team as they try to build momentum early in the season.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' aging roster remains a concern, as evidenced by Mookie Betts' early-season injury. While the team has taken steps to address the issue, the fragility of their veteran players could ultimately determine the success or failure of their championship aspirations.