Dodgers' Mookie Betts headed to IL with oblique strain

Infielder Hyeseong Kim recalled from Triple-A to replace Betts on active roster

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:38pm

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Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a right oblique strain, manager Dave Roberts announced. The Dodgers have recalled infielder Hyeseong Kim from Triple-A Oklahoma City to take Betts' spot on the active roster.

Why it matters

Betts has been a key part of the Dodgers' lineup and defense, so his absence due to injury will be a significant loss for the team as they look to maintain their position in the standings. The Dodgers will need to rely on other infielders like Miguel Rojas and Alex Freeland to fill in at shortstop during Betts' absence.

The details

Betts suffered the oblique strain while running the bases in the Dodgers' 10-5 win over the Washington Nationals on Saturday. He was replaced in the field in the bottom of the first inning. An MRI later revealed the oblique strain, which the team believes Betts suffered on a checked swing. Roberts said the injury is considered 'moderate' in severity, but Betts is still expected to miss at least 10 days.

  • Betts was replaced at shortstop in the bottom of the first inning on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Betts underwent an MRI on Saturday night that revealed the oblique strain.
  • The Dodgers have placed Betts on the 10-day injured list, effective April 5, 2026.

The players

Mookie Betts

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop who was placed on the injured list with a right oblique strain.

Dave Roberts

Manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Hyeseong Kim

Infielder recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City to replace Betts on the Dodgers' active roster.

Miguel Rojas

Dodgers infielder who replaced Betts at shortstop on Saturday.

Alex Freeland

Dodgers infielder who is part of the second base platoon and could also see time at shortstop during Betts' absence.

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What they’re saying

“Disappointed for him. Because we're starting to get going a little bit, and the way he's playing defense, and he's a big part of what we do. Any time you miss, it's gonna take some time to get your footing. So disappointed for him, but hopeful that it's not long term.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The Dodgers will monitor Betts' recovery and hope he can return to the lineup within the 10-day injured list stint. In the meantime, the team will rely on a combination of Rojas, Freeland, and Kim to fill in at shortstop.

The takeaway

Betts' injury is a significant blow to the Dodgers, who have counted on his production and defense at shortstop. The team will need to find a way to weather his absence and maintain their position in the standings until he can return to the lineup.