Betts paying off big for Dodgers
ARLINGTON, TEXAS » Mookie Betts slid headfirst across home plate, then popped up and did a double pump with his right fist. An inning later, he got to trot around the bases after going deep.
That big commitment to Betts is already paying off for the Los Angeles Dodgers this postseason.
After run-saving catches in three consecutive potential elimination games to get the Dodgers this far, Betts put his speed, instincts and power on display in Game 1 of the World Series. There was a Ruth-like journey around the bases to score — and that was even before his solo homer in an 8-3win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night.
“Mookie is pretty special,” said teammate Clayton Kershaw, who pitched six strong innings for the win. “He does things on a baseball field that not many people can do and he does it pretty consistently, which separates him from a lot of guys.
“You might see one game and not really appreciate Mookie to his full potential.”
Betts led off the Dodgers fifth with a walk and stole second base. After NL Championship SeriesMVP Corey Seager drew a walk behind him, they pulled off a double steal.
“That’s just another element that Mookie brings. He does a lot of studying to be able to create stress,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.
Then, with the Rays infield playing in, Max Muncy hit a bouncer to first baseman Yandy Diaz, who threw on the run after Betts broke quickly for the plate. He slid past the attempted tag for a 3-1 lead.
“It’s just all practice,” Betts said. “In BP, I run the bases. In spring training, we’re running bases, constantly putting in this work for this time.”
The only other player with a walk and multiple stolen bases in an inning during aWorld Series game was Babe Ruth in 1921.
“Stolen bases are a thing for me. That’s how I create runs and create havoc on the basepaths,” Betts said.
“Once you get on the bases, you’re not a hitter anymore — you run the bases. When you’re in the outfield, you’re on defense. I’m able to focus on the task at hand.”