(Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Dodgers gave Mookie Betts a night off on Thursday for their series opener against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.
But that didn’t mean that Betts wasn’t going to play a key role in their win.
Betts pinch-hit for shortstop Luke Williams and ultimately took over at the shortstop position.
This was Betts’ first time playing the shortstop position, and he sure didn’t disappoint.
With the game tied at two in the bottom of the eighth inning, the Cubs had runners on first and second when Patrick Wisdom grounded one over to Betts at shortstop.
And Betts made it look easy when he fielded the grounder, stepping on second base, and leaping into the air to nab Wisdom at first.
The Dodgers posted a video of the highlight on Twitter.
First career appearance at shortstop for Mookie? No problem. pic.twitter.com/z8FCgkhRGh
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) April 21, 2023
Betts’ spectacular play helped keep things tied up before the Dodgers got out of the inning to send the game to the ninth inning tied.
The veteran slugger and speedster also picked up a base-hit in his first at-bat when pinch-hitting for Williams.
But his spectacular play in the eighth at a new position was crucial.
It kept the game tied and set up a key moment in the ninth inning.
And for Betts to be able to do this when playing the shortstop position for the first time in his career is certainly impressive.
The way Betts made the play, most would not be able to tell by the naked eye that it was his first appearance at shortstop.
The former MVP made it look easy and came through in a crucial spot on the defensive end.
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