The Los Angeles Dodgers are launching their season minus Mookie Betts, and his absence could stretch longer. A baffling stomach bug is keeping the MLB star off the field, robbing him of solid food and significant weight.
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Betts, once the AL MVP, opened up to reporters about his ordeal. He now weighs just 157 pounds -- a steep drop from the 175 he carried into Dodgers spring training in mid-February. "My body's eating itself," he told SportsNetLA. "I fuel up, and it comes right back up. I'm lost on what to do."
The illness defies diagnosis. Doctors run test after test, but no answers surface. "I'm afraid to eat," Betts confessed. It hit him hard two days before the team flew to Tokyo for the season's start. His vitals check out fine, yet the mystery persists. Medical teams dig deeper to unlock what's plaguing the Dodgers' all-around talent.
In Tokyo, Betts sat out both exhibition games against the Cubs last week. The Dodgers powered through, nabbing two wins. Sunday brought hope -- he slotted into the lineup -- but a late scratch dashed it. "I'm dying to play," he said. "I'm sick of sitting, sick of puking, sick of this whole mess. I just want the game."
MLB Star Baffled
Betts insists he feels strong otherwise. He trains like always, swinging bats and fielding reps. Food's the lone hurdle. "Smoothies stay down sometimes," he noted. "I might just play at 150 pounds with shakes." Typically 180 pounds, he's bracing for a season 20-30 pounds lighter.
Tommy Edman filled the void in Japan, taking second base. He delivered, going 2-for-10 with a homer across the victories. Chris Taylor and Miguel Rojas stand ready, too. The Dodgers' deep roster cushions Betts' absence for now.
The home opener looms Thursday against the Tigers, kicking off the MLB full slate. Betts' status hangs in limbo. "I'll find a way," he pledged, determined to gut it out. Teammates are rallying, but the clock is ticking.
