As the teams reported to spring training, things have started heating up. And the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Mookie Betts did not seem to let things go this easy. The superstar right fielder remained calm and composed during the recent media interaction and made sure his words struck just right.
During a recent interview with USA TODAY Sports, Betts made a poignant statement that could be interpreted as a veiled jab at fellow MLB star Manny Machado. The context? Betts is on a mission this season to redefine his role on the field. He’s not only looking to make the most out of his time in the field, but he is also perhaps sending a subtle message to those who doubt his capabilities.
“This is not like a vengeance tour. It’s about proving a lot of people wrong. But more than anything, it’s about proving myself right. So many years, I just didn’t believe in myself,” Betts said.
Mookie Betts knows a thing or two about playing shortstop. 👀 pic.twitter.com/YmKjwQ0nle
— MLB (@MLB) March 8, 2024
For those who have no idea what the 8x All-Star was referring to, there’s a short story about him and the San Diego Padres third baseman. Machado earlier expressed skepticism about Betts’ transition back to shortstop. He had a word regarding the former’s transition to a new position.
“I don’t know why he’d want to do that. I don’t know, man, it’s crazy what he’s trying to do. He’s a Gold Glover. He’s such a good outfielder. Why go play such a demanding position? It takes so much of a toll on your body,” Machado said.
Despite the doubt, Betts seems unfazed by such skepticism. He is determined to show that he can thrive as a shortstop, a position he hasn’t played consistently since his early years in the league.
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Mookie Betts Acknowledges Blue Jays Legend’s Contribution In His New Position
While there will be doubters all around, Mookie Betts did not seem to let any of that cross his mind. The Los Angeles shortstop has been vocal about the invaluable training he received from Toronto Blue Jays legend Troy Tulowitzki this off-season. In a recent interview on MLB Network Radio, Betts shared how Tulowitzki has significantly contributed to his growth in the new position.
“Tulo is definitely a huge part of who I am today, especially playing shortstop. Now is the process of figuring out who Mookie Betts is out there,” Betts said.
"Tulo is definitely a huge part of who I am today, especially playing shortstop."
— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) February 22, 2025
Mookie Betts spent time this offseason learning from one of the best, Troy Tulowitzki:#SpringTrainingTour | #Dodgers
🔗 https://t.co/3lNMHjejQd pic.twitter.com/LpxMGTRvOG
Having only transitioned to this role during the 2023 playoffs, Betts emphasized that the training he underwent during the offseason has helped him build confidence.
Tulowitzki, who has not played in MLB since 2019, transitioned to coaching and is currently the batting coach at Texas University. His new role has allowed him to share his extensive knowledge of the game, and he did just that while training Betts. During an appearance on MLB Network, Tulowitzki praised Betts’s dedication and unique approach to training. The player-turned-coach also noted how such commitment is pivotal for achieving greatness.
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