Mookie Betts Rewiring Swing

Mookie Betts' 2025 season saw a noticeable dip in production, with the Dodgers star posting a .258 batting average, 20 home runs, and 82 RBIs in 150 games. While these numbers are solid, they represent a significant drop-off from his 2018 American League MVP season, where he led the major leagues with a .346 batting average and a .640 slugging percentage. This isn't the first time Betts has undertaken a significant swing overhaul. Prior to his 2018 MVP campaign with the Boston Red Sox, he worked with hitting coach Tim Hyers and private instructor Doug Latta to make adjustments. That collaboration was instrumental in elevating his game to an elite level. The 2025 season marked his least productive year in a Dodgers uniform, with his .732 OPS being the lowest of his career. Despite the offensive struggles, Betts still showcased his defensive prowess at shortstop, finishing as a Gold Glove finalist and winning a Fielding Bible Award. In his quest to return to form, Betts is reportedly working with the Dodgers' current hitting coach, Aaron Bates. He has also sought outside expertise, including a visit to the data-driven training facility Driveline, arranged by Dodgers hitting coach Robert Van Scoyoc, to undergo a biomechanical evaluation. Adding a new dimension to his training, Betts has been working with Osamu Yada, the personal trainer for his teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto. This new regimen is said to focus more on core strength and flexibility, a different approach for the veteran superstar. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has indicated a deliberate "ramping up" for Betts during spring training, holding him out of early Cactus League games to allow him to build up gradually.