MLB Scout: Dodgers Infield Defense Is 'Worst in the Game' with Mookie Betts at SS

The Los Angeles Dodgers have moved former American League MVP Mookie Betts to shortstop for the 2024 season, although the defensive outlook doesn't appear promising.

An anonymous scout called the Dodgers' infield defense "the worst in the game," according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Betts switched positions after Gavin Lux dealt with issues throwing to first base in the spring, so manager Dave Roberts moved him to second base in order to decrease the distance between Lux and first baseman Freddie Freeman.

While Betts has won six Gold Glove awards in his career, they've all come during his days in the outfield. He started in just 12 games and spent 98 total innings at shortstop during the 2023 season, turning four double plays and committing three errors.

Although he expressed confidence in his ability to adapt to the new role, he recognized that he'll have to grow more comfortable over time when speaking to reporters.

"I'm a lot more confident," Betts said, per Juan Toribio of MLB.com. "But it's going to take experience to really grow the confidence. But going out there, taking the field, I feel I can make every play. I think that's a really important mindset for me to have going forward."

Rounding out Los Angeles' infield is Max Muncy at third base. The Dodgers defeated the San Diego Padres by the final score of 5-2 in South Korea on Wednesday, although they suffered an ugly 15-11 defeat on Friday that contained two errors by Muncy.