Dodgers Rumors: LA Says It’s ‘Unfair to Count Out’ Mookie Betts at Shortstop in MLB Playoffs | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats & Rumors

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ experiment with Mookie Betts at shortstop was going better than anyone could have hoped before his injury, but the seven-time All-Star may not return to the position when he returns.

By USA TodayBetts is expected to return to second base because the Dodgers “feel it would be unfair” to ask him to play such a critical role in the playoffs when he’s only just gotten used to it this season, according to Bob Nightengale.

Betts broke his left hand after being hit by a pitch from Kansas City Royals reliever Dan Altavilla on June 16. Manager Dave Roberts told reporters the next day that Betts would likely be out for six to eight weeks.

It’s odd to think the Dodgers are hesitant about Betts’ ability to handle shortstop given how he’s acclimated to the position. His four defensive runs saved rank him sixth among 24 shortstops with at least 500 innings played.

Miguel Rojas, who replaces Betts at shortstop, has one defensive run saved in 251.2 innings played at the position.

Putting Betts at second base upon his return would solve a roster problem for the Dodgers. Gavin Lux has been their primary starter at the position, but he’s hitting just .208/.264/.283 with two homers in 71 games.

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired Cavan Biggio on June 12 in a trade with Los Angeles to add depth to their infield. He is batting .196/.311/.266 in 58 games between the two teams.

Rojas was efficient with a .749 OPS in 57 games. Betts was playing at a near-MVP level before his injury with a .304/.405/.488 batting line with 10 homers and more walks (47) than strikeouts (34) in 331 plate appearances.