Dodgers' Mookie Betts Already Doing Pregame Drills After IL Stint

The four-time World Series champion has resumed light activity just days after landing on the injured list with an oblique strain.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:52pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player performing defensive drills, with sharp planes of Dodger blue, white, red, and yellow hues.A cubist interpretation of Mookie Betts' rapid recovery, capturing the star shortstop's determination to return to the field.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts has already begun pregame defensive drills at Rogers Centre, just two days after being placed on the injured list with a right oblique strain. While Betts has not yet returned to full hitting activity, the early signs of his recovery are encouraging, as oblique injuries often require extended time away.

Why it matters

Betts' quick return to on-field activity is a positive development for the Dodgers, who will need their star shortstop healthy as they look to defend their World Series title. The team has adjusted its lineup in Betts' absence, but his eventual return could come well ahead of the typical timetable for oblique injuries.

The details

Betts was placed on the IL on Sunday, but on Tuesday, he went through pregame defensive drills, moving laterally at shortstop without visible limitations. He also fielded ground balls at first base from a kneeling position. Betts said he's in a 'much better spot than originally anticipated' and 'doesn't even really notice that it hurts'.

  • Betts was placed on the IL on Sunday, April 6, 2026.
  • On Tuesday, April 8, 2026, Betts resumed pregame drills at Rogers Centre.

The players

Mookie Betts

A four-time World Series champion and star shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Miguel Rojas

A Dodgers infielder who has been handling shortstop duties in Betts' absence.

Hyeseong Kim

A Dodgers infielder who has also been filling in at shortstop while Betts is on the injured list.

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What they’re saying

“Honestly, I don't even really notice that it hurts. Much better spot than originally anticipated.”

— Mookie Betts

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to monitor Betts' progress and take a measured approach as he works his way back to full activity. His eventual return could come sooner than expected, but the team will prioritize his long-term health.

The takeaway

Mookie Betts' rapid recovery from an oblique injury is an encouraging sign for the Dodgers, who will need their star shortstop healthy as they defend their World Series title. The team's ability to adjust its lineup in Betts' absence has kept them competitive, but his return could provide a significant boost as the season progresses.