Mookie Betts Blames Current Struggles on Lingering Issue

Dodgers Star Finally Breaks Hitless Streak

The Los Angeles Dodgers picked up a critical win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday night, and much of that had to do with Mookie Betts. The struggling slugger finally showed signs of life at the plate after enduring a five-game slump that saw him go 0-for-22. With three hits in the game, Dodgers fans are hoping it marks a turning point in his season.

Betts entered the game hitting a career-low .236/.308/.361, prompting all kinds of speculation about what was going wrong. From a stomach bug to a lingering toe issue to the stress of switching to shortstop, every theory had been floated.

But now, Betts himself is pointing to something different.

Betts Points to Hand Injury as Root of Slump

Speaking candidly, Betts revealed that he hasn’t felt the same since suffering a hand injury last June against the Kansas City Royals.

“Think about it. Go and watch it. I haven’t been the same since then.”

While the fracture has technically healed, Betts admitted the aftereffects may still be impacting his performance. Interestingly, he claims his grip strength is stronger now, but the results at the plate haven’t followed.

The 31-year-old remains committed to daily work before and after games, but even he admits he’s still looking for answers. His comments suggest that he’s been downplaying how much the injury has affected his approach at the plate.

Read More: ‘Can’t even freaking pitch’ – Shohei Ohtani Called Out Amidst Mookie Betts Dodgers Sacrifice

Can Betts Spark a Late-Season Comeback

Despite the ongoing struggle, Betts insists he’s not out of ideas. He’s just been keeping his adjustments under wraps to avoid media noise.

The hitless streak may have been snapped, but the Dodgers know it’ll take more than one game to get their star fully back on track. Still, Tuesday’s performance offered a glimmer of hope that maybe…just maybe he’s turning the corner.

If Mookie Betts is right about the source of his struggles, then addressing that injury could be the key to salvaging what’s been a surprisingly underwhelming season.

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