Mookie Betts Out of MLB Tokyo Series 2025, Dodgers Want to 'Play it Safe' With His Health

Before the regular season of MLB starts on March 27, baseball fans do not want to miss the much-anticipated Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs. However, while everyone is excited about the exhibition game, some fans are sad to know that Mookie Betts won't be a part of the MLB Tokyo Series 2025 opener.

Mookie Betts Out for Tokyo Series

Mookie Betts Out of MLB Tokyo Series 2025, Dodgers Want

Despite the hype, the Dodgers will miss one of their biggest stars for both games in Tokyo. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed to MLB that Mookie Betts will not play in the series because of an illness. The news came out on Sunday, and fans were left disappointed but optimistic about his speedy recovery.

Betts, who did not participate in the Dodgers' weekend exhibition games, became fatigued during a workout on Sunday. The team now is contemplating returning him to the US early so that he can rehabilitate before the start of the regular season back in the States.

Dodgers Want to Prioritize Betts' Health For Regular Season

While Mookie Betts is a huge loss for the MLB Tokyo Series 2025 opener, the Dodgers are just being reasonable here-- prioritizing the health of their star outfielder before he comes back to play.

According to Roberts, the team was optimistic for Opening Day, and as much as possible, they did not want to put him in danger.

The 32-year-old ex-AL MVP and six-time Gold Glove recipient will be the Dodgers' regular shortstop this season after filling last year with playing time at various positions. His loss in Tokyo is a loss for the team, but the Dodgers are putting a long-term recovery ahead of opening-week games.

Shohei Ohtani Tops MLB's International Showcase

One of the most dominant narratives going into the Tokyo Series is the return of many Japanese-born players, led by Shohei Ohtani. With Ohtani being a national hero in Japan, his return to his homeland has caused enormous buzz, with Tokyo Dome likely to be filled with energy-crazed fans.

According to Fox Sports, Yoshinobu Yamamoto is also there in the MLB Tokyo Series opener. The right-hander managed to bounce back from his disappointing debut in South Korea last year.

Dodgers and Cubs Ready to Battle in Tokyo

Even without Betts, the Dodgers are still a force to be reckoned with, having a world-class lineup with Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and new recruits who are determined to make their mark.

The Cubs, on the other hand, want to begin the season strongly, powered by their young guns and a combination of seasoned veterans.

The Tokyo Series includes two games between the Dodgers and Cubs on March 18 and 19. MLB wants baseball to go global and extend the love for the sport, especially to countries that rarely watch it.