The list of what Mookie Betts can’t do is shorter than the opposite.
His resume is filled to the brim with accomplishments. A six-time MLB All-Star and former MVP, sure. A professional bowler who bowled a perfect game in the World Series of Bowling, Okay. And now, an assistant coach.
Well, it’s not his official title during his time playing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, but he’s the perfect guy to help out on that end.
During some recent warmups ahead of Sunday’s game against Cuba, Betts had some time to kill, so he assisted some of the coaches with some ground balls.
“They do everything they can to help us,” Betts told MLB.com. “So whenever I have the time, I’ll make sure I help them.”
Betts also has a familiar face on the coaching squad in Dino Ebel who also coaches third base for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The way Betts helps out teammates isn’t new territory, of course. He’s a leader on his team — in and out of the clubhouse. He established that the moment he came to the Dodgers from the Boston Red Sox in 2020. His introductory speech to his new team was that of Kirk Gibson-demeanor as Justin Turner described it.
And as you can see, he’ll do whatever he can for the betterment of the team.
Mookie Betts told Mark DeRosa to manage as if Team USA is in the World Series and not worry about hurting anyone’s feelings, per @BNightengale pic.twitter.com/TlE2Fg83wi
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 18, 2023
An impossible task when you’re establishing yourself, but not if you’re Mookie Betts.
About Jessica Kleinschmidt
Jess is a baseball fan with Reno, Nev. roots residing in the Bay Area. She is the host of "Short and to the Point" and is also a broadcaster with the Oakland A's Radio Network. She previously worked for MLB.com and NBC Sports Bay Area.