Mookie Betts is enjoying a resurgence at the plate, according to The Athletic. The Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder hit his third consecutive home run during a game against the San Diego Padres on June 26, 2026, contributing to a 4-2 victory.
What happened
Betts highlighted his current form, comparing himself to basketball star Steph Curry. “It’s like Steph,” he stated. “You just need to see a ball go through the rim.” After a slow offensive start this season, he now boasts a league-average 100 wRC+, having hit home runs in five of his last 13 games.[2]
In the fifth inning of the recent matchup, Betts secured the game with a two-run single, leading to the Dodgers’ victory. He had previously expressed frustration with his performance this season, noting a significant gap between his expected and actual batting averages. “It’s hard, dude,” Betts remarked about the complexities of modern pitching. “Hitting is just so hard now.”
For Betts, simplicity has become key. “Just hit it,” he said. He is confident that this mental shift will help him succeed, moving away from mechanics and focusing solely on hitting the ball.[3]
Why it matters
Betts’ recent performance could signify a turning point for the Dodgers, who lead the NL West by ten games. A consistent Betts will strengthen their batting lineup as they head into the summer months, potentially solidifying their playoff position. His aggressive approach at the plate has also garnered praise from manager Dave Roberts.[1]
Background
On May 20, 2026, Betts faced a particularly challenging start, grappling with mechanical issues that hindered his performance. His frustrations peaked with the largest discrepancy between expected and actual batting averages in the league. However, the timely adjustment in his mindset appears to have paid off in recent games.
What’s next
The Dodgers will play four additional games against the Padres in Los Angeles next week, offering an opportunity to extend their division lead further.
