By: Jacob Linkous
In the current world of uncertainty, the Los Angeles Dodgers have their own uncertainty.
The blockbuster trade that happened in the off-season set the Dodgers up for their best season yet with a lineup that touted Betts, a former MVP, and 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger. Dodgers fans and the media alike crowned the Dodgers, once again, National League champs before the season started.
While the hype built up to an immeasurable amount, the impending doom of COVID-19 derailed the hype train. With sides bickering and a return date that has the foundation of sand, no one can be too sure as to when the teams will return to the field.
Betts’ contract was never a problem for the Dodgers during the trade discussions but with the lingering fact that he may not play this season, it’s become the focus of attention.
To avoid arbitration with the Boston Red Sox, Betts signed a one-year deal with the Sox in January of 2020. The one-year deal came to the amount of $27 million and will expire whether the Dodgers play this season or not. Betts will become an unrestricted free agent and as of now will play the field when it comes to free agency.
The feeling of regret has started to set in and possibly will be for good reason if the Dodgers shipped away rising star outfielder Alex Verdugo and prospect shortstop Jeter Downs for eight Spring Training games from Betts.
Being an unrestricted free agent, expect Betts to sign a somewhat short contract whether it’s with Los Angeles or a different team. Betts could cash in for a 10-year deal like Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, and Mike Trout but will more than likely opt for a shorter deal. This can be pointed towards Betts being cautious. Not playing a 162-game schedule can give Betts second thoughts on how he will fit in the system.
(Pic via LA Times)
While Betts will play the field, very few teams will be able to make a push for the 5-foot-9 outfielder.
The New York Yankees and the teams of the upper echelon come to mind but when it comes down to it, not many have the pull that the Dodgers have. Betts did not choose to come to the Dodgers but felt pretty welcomed from the very beginning and hasn’t had the hardest time gelling with the team.
“The hardest thing is finding a house and learning everybody’s name,” Betts said when talking to the Boston Globe after his first Spring Training game with the Dodgers.
If Betts doesn’t see the field with the Dodgers this season, it will end up amongst the biggest what-ifs in not only Dodgers history but MLB history.
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