Hyeseong Kim to Fill In as Dodgers’ Mookie Betts Hits Injured List

WASHINGTON – April 5, 2026 – A significant shift in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ lineup occurred today as shortstop Mookie Betts was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right oblique strain. In a corresponding move, the Dodgers recalled infielder Hyeseong Kim from Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Betts’ injury occurred during Saturday’s 10-5 victory against the Washington Nationals. He left the game after reaching base via a walk and scoring in the first inning. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated the injury likely stemmed from a check swing during the at-bat.

Betts’ Injury and Potential Recovery Timeline

While Roberts refrained from providing a definitive timeline for Betts’ return, he expressed optimism that the recovery period might be shorter than the typical four-to-six weeks associated with oblique strains. “He’s actually in better spirits,” Roberts stated. “He’s obviously disappointed, but just the way he feels today, I think he’s had some dealings with that before and said it’s better than he recalls in past experience, so that was encouraging.”

Prior to the injury, Betts was off to a slow start, batting .179 with two home runs and seven RBIs in the Dodgers’ first eight games. Last season, the 33-year-old was a key contributor, hitting .258 with 20 home runs and 82 RBIs across 150 games.

Kim’s Opportunity and Dodgers’ Shortstop Situation

Hyeseong Kim, a promising rookie, will now have a chance to showcase his skills at the major league level. Last season, Kim impressed with a .280 batting average, three home runs, and 17 RBIs in 71 games. Roberts anticipates a platoon situation at shortstop, with Kim and Miguel Rojas sharing playing time while Betts recovers. Rojas took Betts’ place in Saturday’s game and batted second on Sunday against the Nationals.

Roberts also mentioned that Kim is likely to start approximately two out of every three games during the Dodgers’ upcoming series against the Toronto Blue Jays, beginning Monday.

Impact on the Dodgers’ Lineup

Betts’ absence will undoubtedly alter the Dodgers’ offensive structure. He had been consistently batting in the No. 3 spot this season, a role he frequently occupied as the No. 2 hitter last year. “He’s Mookie Betts, so it certainly changes,” Roberts acknowledged. “But that’s the great thing about having depth that a lot of teams don’t have. A platoon at short and you feel like you’ve got good matchups, it’s not all bad and it gives other guys opportunities. But it’s a blow, for sure.”

The Dodgers will need to rely on their depth and Kim’s ability to contribute offensively to mitigate the impact of Betts’ injury. Fans will be watching closely to see how Kim performs in this crucial opportunity.

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