Dodgers Star Mookie Betts Shows Promising Signs of Injury Recovery

Betts is making progress in his recovery from an oblique injury, raising hopes for a quicker return to the field.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:38am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball player running the bases, with sharp, overlapping planes of Dodger blue and red colors capturing the dynamic motion of the sport.Betts' speedy recovery from an oblique injury could be a major boost for the Dodgers as they navigate the long MLB season.Washington Today

Los Angeles Dodgers star outfielder Mookie Betts is recovering well from an oblique injury he sustained while running the bases against the Washington Nationals. Betts was placed on the 10-day injured list, but has been seen doing field work and moving side-to-side without much pain, indicating he may return sooner than the typical 4-6 week recovery timeline for an oblique strain.

Why it matters

Betts is a key player for the Dodgers, a former MVP and perennial All-Star. His injury was a significant blow to the team, but the Dodgers have depth to cover his absence. Betts' speedy recovery could help the Dodgers maintain their strong start to the season.

The details

Betts suffered the oblique injury while running the bases in the first inning against the Nationals on April 4. He was initially thought to have a back injury, but further examination revealed an oblique strain. The Dodgers placed Betts on the 10-day injured list and called up Hyeseong Kim to the active roster. On April 7, Betts was seen doing field work, taking ground balls and moving side-to-side with minimal discomfort, indicating he may return sooner than the typical 4-6 week recovery timeline for an oblique strain.

  • Betts suffered the oblique injury on April 4 against the Washington Nationals.
  • The Dodgers placed Betts on the 10-day injured list on April 5.
  • On April 7, Betts was seen doing field work and moving well, showing promising signs of recovery.

The players

Mookie Betts

A star outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers and former American League MVP.

Hyeseong Kim

A player called up by the Dodgers to the active roster to cover for Betts' absence.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Freddie Freeman

A teammate of Betts and fellow star player for the Dodgers.

Alex Freeland

A Dodgers player who can cover shortstop in Betts' absence.

Miguel Rojas

A Dodgers player who can cover shortstop in Betts' absence.

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What they’re saying

“I just took off running. I'm not sure how or what happened. Day was normal. Everything was normal. So I have no idea.”

— Mookie Betts

“That's the great thing about having the depth that a lot of teams don't have. Being able to plug in a platoon at short and feel like you have good matchups is not all bad. And it gives other guys opportunities. But it's a blow, for sure.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to monitor Betts' progress and provide updates on his recovery timeline. If he continues to show positive signs, he could potentially return to the lineup sooner than the initial 4-6 week estimate for an oblique strain.

The takeaway

Betts' speedy recovery could be a major boost for the Dodgers, who have the depth to cover his absence but will be eager to get their star outfielder back on the field. This injury scare highlights the importance of roster depth in Major League Baseball, where teams must be prepared to navigate injuries to key players throughout the long season.