"It really bothers me" - Mookie Betts vows to get 'better' in new role after Dodgers shortstop's error against Reds
Los Angeles Dodger superstar Mookie Betts had another eventful game on Friday as his team clinched a 2-0 lead in the four-game series against the Cincinnati Reds.
Betts helped the Dodgers to an early 1-0 lead in the second game of the series after his 51st career leadoff home run in the top of the first inning. However, Betts throwing error from his new position as a shortstop helped Jonathan India score in the fourth.
Despite his team's comfortable victory on the night, the seven-time All-Star was disappointed with his error and vowed to improve in the upcoming games.
"Making errors really bothers me. It really really bother me. You just have to be better than that, man. That's really all it is. It didn't really just affect me, it effects Pax going to have to throw 10-12 more pitches. I got to keep working."
While the two-time World Series winner acknowledges his shortcomings, Betts also reiterated the difficulties of adapting to a new role this season after being an exceptional outfielder for the majority of his career.
"This is really hard," Mookie Betts said on his learnings. "It's really really hard. It is what it is and I gotta do it. I enjoy doing it but the main thing is it's really hard. It's a work in progress."
Mookie Betts lauds Jason Heyward on his return from injury
Mookie Betts' leadoff hit in the first inning was followed by Shohei Ohtani's two-run effort in the third. The Japanese superstar is now tied for the most home runs this season with Kyle Tucker and Gunnar Henderson.
Despite Ohtani's two-run effort, the Dodgers squandered their advantage in the game with the scores tied in the seventh. Will Smith restored the hosts' lead with a go-ahead single before a returning Jason Heyward's first home run of the year put the Dodgers in a comfortable position.
It was Heyward's first game for the Dodgers after being activated on Thursday following a six-week absence due to a back injury. Betts was also pleased with the veteran outfielder's return as it was his solo home run that seemingly put the game beyond doubt for the Dodgers.
“It was huge,” said Mookie Betts. “It kind of put the game out of reach at that point. It’s a good welcome back. I’m glad he’s back.”
The Dodgers will be up against the Reds at Dodger Stadium for the third game of the series with hopes of clinching the four-game series on Saturday.