**Mookie Betts Misses Tokyo Series Due to Illness**
Mookie Betts, the star outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, will not participate in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs due to an illness. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced this decision on Sunday night, stating that Betts is beginning to feel better but has lost nearly 15 pounds and is still working on rehydrating and regaining strength. In an effort to rest and prepare for the domestic opener on March 27, Betts may return to the United States before the team. The Dodgers and Cubs are set to kick off the Major League Baseball season on Tuesday at the Tokyo Dome, with a second game scheduled for Wednesday.
### Betts’ Health Status
– **Illness Impact**: Betts is experiencing flu-like symptoms that began in Arizona just before the team’s departure for Japan. Although he managed the long flight, his recovery has not progressed as quickly as anticipated.
– **Manager’s Comments**: “He’s not going to play in these two games,” Roberts said. “When you’re dehydrated, that’s what opens a person up to soft tissue injuries. We’re very mindful of that.”
### Replacement at Shortstop
– **Miguel Rojas**: In Betts’ absence, Miguel Rojas will take over the shortstop position for the two games in Tokyo.
### Transition to Shortstop
This season marks Betts’ full-time transition to shortstop after spending most of his career in right field and second base. Last season, he posted a batting average of .289, with 19 home runs and 75 RBIs, contributing significantly to the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
**Conclusion**: With Betts sidelined, how will the Dodgers adjust their strategy for the Tokyo Series?
**FAQs**:
**Q: Why is Mookie Betts missing the Tokyo Series?**
**A:** Mookie Betts is missing the Tokyo Series due to an illness that has caused him to lose weight and requires him to focus on rehydration and recovery.
