Back at 2B, another defensive gem for Betts
LOS ANGELES -- Dodgers star Mookie Betts has five Gold Glove Awards in the outfield. But he’s reminding everyone that he’s a pretty good second baseman, which was his original position growing up.
After making a spectacular running grab at second on Sunday against the D-backs, Betts showed off his leather once again, making a sensational diving grab in the fifth inning of Tuesday’s 3-0 loss to the Astros at Dodger Stadium.
Betts, who was playing on the outfield grass as part of the shift, took two steps to his left before he fully extended to rob Astros right fielder Michael Brantley of a hit. The exit velocity was only 89.6 mph, but the ball had an .830 expected batting average.
The Dodgers have Betts playing second base as he continues to try and get fully healthy from a lingering hip issue. Betts returned from the injured list on Sunday, but had some soreness after the game, which is why he was back at the position on Tuesday.
Trotting Betts out at second base was purely out of necessity, but the former American League MVP is showing that he’s more than capable of playing the position. You can add it to the long list of things that Betts excels at.