Recent reports that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts may move Mookie Betts lower in the his batting order as the 32-year-old Nashville, TN native continues to struggle offensively. While this may seem like a reasonable approach for a statistically-driven team like the Dodgers, Mookie’s position in the batting order isn’t the issue.
After 783 plate appearances as a shortstop, Betts wRC+ (weighted runs created) is 116, or 16% better than the average Major Leaguer. Not bad – until you compare that with his wRC+ when he plays other positions:
- Second base – 159
- Right field – 139
- Center field – 125
(Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports)
While Roberts continues to use Betts as his regular shortstop, he is ignoring the stats that the Dodgers clearly value.
Please move Mookie to either second base or right field!
Go Dodgers!
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