Mookie Betts Injury Update: Dodgers shortstop exits game with fracture, potential replacements and return timeline explored

Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts had to leave Sunday’s game early against the Kansas City Royals at Dodger Stadium. Despite the superstar’s exit, his team showcased a strong performance and achieved a 3-0 victory in the final game of their three-game series.

In the seventh inning, Mookie Betts faced Royals pitcher Dan Altavilla with one ball and two strikes. The right-hander then threw a 97.9 mph four-seam fastball that hit Betts on the back of his left hand.

After the hit, the Dodgers shortstop fell to the ground and was seen in immense pain. It was revealed that Betts suffered a fractured left hand from the hit-by-pitch, sidelining him for an uncertain amount of time.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts later revealed that Mookie Betts won’t need surgery and the injury isn’t season-ending.

“It's just going to be rest and let the bones heal,” Roberts said (via MLB.com). “He's a superstar player, he's a big part of our ballclub. But our guys understand that that's part of baseball, and you got to move forward. And guys are going to get opportunities and got to play well.”

Before Mookie Betts left the game, he went 0 for 3, with an average of .304 and an OPS of .893. He was replaced by pinch runner Miguel Rojas who played in his stead for the remaining two innings.

Rojas is expected to handle the shortstop position in Mookie Betts' absence with Kike Hernandez stepping in occasionally. With the leadoff spot empty, Dave Roberts is considering filling it by moving Shohei Ohtani.

Mookie Betts expresses support for his team while he recovers

Mookie Betts entered the game leading the Los Angeles Dodgers in several categories, including a batting average of .307, a .407 on-base percentage, 86 hits on 280 at-bats, three triples, and 47 walks across 71 games.

Talking about his injury, Betts said (via MLB.com):

“What’s next? I’m honestly not sure. Obviously, I'll be watching the boys, cheering them on. But other than that, it’s just kind of rest, maybe use it as a mental break. Be ready to go whenever it heals up.”

Losing Mookie Betts, who was expected to start as the National League's shortstop in the All-Star Game, is a major setback for the Dodgers. Regarding his injury, Kansas City Royals pitcher Dan Altavilla said (via MLB.com):

"Absolutely no intent. I was trying to go inside in a 1-2 count and it slipped armside out of my hand. I really hope he's OK."

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to start a four-game series with the Colorado Rockies on Monday at Coors Field.