LA (Associated Press) – Mookie Betts, a standout for the Dodgers, missed Tuesday night's game against the New York Mets due to being put on the paternity list. When he returns on Wednesday, the Gold Glove right fielder might have to play a different position.
After calling up infielder Luke Williams from Triple-A Oklahoma City, Los Angeles filled Betts' roster spot. Williams was added to the 40-man roster by moving right-hander Daniel Hudson (ankle) to the 60-day disabled list.
Betts is expected to play infield when he returns for Wednesday's series finale against the Mets, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. Betts has started four of the five games he has played at second base this year.
But Roberts omitted to say where Betts would play. Roberts was questioned about whether Betts might play shortstop for the first time in his major league career because Gavin Lux, the shortstop, is out for the season due to a knee injury, and infielders Miguel Rojas and Chris Taylor are injured.
There's a chance I'll move him to short, Roberts admitted. "Let's see,"
The manager admitted that Betts would have started at shortstop if the Dodgers had forced extra innings against the Mets on Monday. A stint on the disabled list is being considered after Taylor left the game in the eighth inning due to left-side pain.
Betts has been requesting to play shortstop for a while, according to Roberts. So, we'll wait and see how it turns out.
At some point "every day," according to Roberts, Betts will take at least a few grounders at shortstop during batting practice or during pregame infield exercises.
The captain was questioned about Betts' possibility of injury while playing a new position.
Roberts replied, "I don't think there's a health danger. "I'll pick what offers us the best chance to win, and I know you're looking at where we are right now. Is Miguel Rojas fit to participate in a day game following two night games given that he just suffered from tissue injuries? (Taylor's) state of affairs. I will have to consider all of the information before deciding.
Williams playing shortstop could be a straightforward choice. The 26-year-old Williams, who signed with the Dodgers as a free agency this past winter, has played shortstop in five games (two starts) in the major league and has spent 72 of his 137 career games on the infield.
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