Mookie Betts Exits Dodgers Game with Back Pain

In Washington, D.C., on Saturday afternoon, Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts left the team's 10-5 victory over the Washington Nationals in the first inning due to right lower back pain, raising concerns for the reigning World Series champions early in the 2026 season.

Betts, slotted third in the lineup, drew a full-count walk against Nationals right-hander Jake Irvin to open the game. He then scored from first base on Freddie Freeman's two-run double to right-center, but appeared uncomfortable as he crossed home plate and returned to the dugout. Miguel Rojas replaced him defensively for the bottom of the inning and contributed a sacrifice fly later in the contest. The Dodgers, now 6-2, erupted for 10 runs, including five in the first inning, to secure the win despite the early setback.

Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the injury occurred while Betts ran the bases. "He felt it as he was running," Roberts told reporters after the game. Describing the issue as "certainly more moderate than significant," Roberts said Betts underwent an MRI on Saturday night to assess the extent of the damage. The 33-year-old All-Star will miss at least the next couple of games, including...