The main character of the game was James Outman, but there was another player who left a strong impression. Mookie Betts, the ‘superstar’ who saved the team from a point loss crisis, is the main character.
Los Angeles Dodgers Mookie Betts substituted in the 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) away game against the Chicago Cubs held at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois, USA on the 21st (Korean time).
Betts, who had been away for a while due to maternity leave, joined the team ahead of the match. He was left out of the starting lineup, but was available after mid-game.
Betts, who stepped on the ground with a pinch hit in the 7th inning, hit a right-handed hit, but the follow-up hitter, Austin Barnes, hit the ground with a double hit and it did not lead to a run. In the top of the ninth, he retired with a fly ball to center fielder. The final result of the day was 2 at-bats and 1 hit.
Rather, Betts’ presence stood out on the defensive side rather than the attack.
He took over as shortstop in place of Luke Williams from defense in the 7th inning. Although he played 14 games as a shortstop in the minor leagues, it was the first day in the big leagues. It was the first time in 11 years that Betts had been a shortstop, including his minor league days. 메이저사이트
Coincidentally, the first ball hit Betts at the most crucial moment.
In the 8th inning, 1st and 2nd baseman Patrick Wisdom caught a ground ball, stepped on 2nd base and threw the ball to 1st base. Betts showed a soft defense as if shortstop was his main position and caught two outs.
According to MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, Betts said in an interview after the game, “My dream came true. I was drafted as a shortstop, but I haven’t had any shortstop experience since 2011. I’m happy that the team won.”
Manager Dave Roberts praised Betts, saying, “Betts played a big role. He played a game right after maternity leave and played a position he had never played in the big leagues. He showed a really great play.”
The Dodgers, who overcame the crisis with Betts’ poor performance, won thanks to Outman’s final run-out in the ninth inning, 2-2.