Are the Dodgers in over their heads with Mookie Betts at shortstop? Exploring the slugger's concerning defensive numbers

Ahead of the 2024 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers tasked Mookie Betts to switch his position, once again, to shortstop. The club was not entirely committed to Gavin Lux at the position, since he was coming off a year where he tore his ACL and LCL in his right knee.

Shortstop is one of the hardest positions in baseball. While Betts is a fantastic athlete, he has had his troubles. According to team writer Blake Harris, Betts ranks among the bottom half of all shortstops.

While looking at these stats, there is not much to write home about. It opens your eyes to just how easy some players, like Bobby Witt Jr. or Corey Seager, make the position appear.

One of the most concerning stats is Betts' throwing errors. Those lead to extra bases and could decide if the Dodgers win or lose a game later down the road.

Betts is a six-time Gold Glover in the outfield, but not so much on the left side of the infield. However, what can you expect when you move a player to the hardest position in baseball?

What can the Dodgers do as Mookie Betts struggles?

Los Angeles Dodgers - Mookie Betts (Image via USA Today)

Mookie Betts' numbers defensively are concerning, and for good reason. The Dodgers have a lot of expectations this season, but they will not meet them if they cringe every time a ball is hit to the left side of the infield.

Finding a dependable shortstop ahead of the trade deadline would make a lot of sense for the club. They could move Betts back to second base, where he is more comfortable.

Bo Bichette is a name that has been mentioned a lot in trade rumors. Many of the team's problems would be solved with this move.