The LA Dodgers are still hopeful for Mookie Betts' healthy return.

Betts, leading the Dodgers' offense as the leadoff hitter, was injured on the 17th of last month during a home game against the Kansas City Royals. He was hit on the left hand by a 97.9 mph fastball thrown by right-hander Dan Altavilla, resulting in a fracture.

With Betts out, Shohei Ohtani moved to the leadoff spot. The Dodgers' "MVP lineup" of Betts, Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman faced a disruption, but Ohtani has stepped up in Betts' absence.

However, the trade possibility has been mentioned not for offense but for strengthening the defense. The Dodgers have other strong hitters like Ohtani, Freeman, Will Smith, and Teoscar Hernandez. But Betts' shortstop position has been a concern.

As a result, there were talks about the Dodgers potentially acquiring a shortstop via trade before the August 1 trade deadline. Betts is expected to be out for at least 6-8 weeks. Although he will not undergo surgery, his return date is uncertain. There was speculation about filling this gap by trading for last year's National League Gold Glover, Ha-seong Kim (San Diego).

However, the Dodgers seem to have no trade plans. Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes believes that Betts and Yamamoto will return before the season ends. He stated, "If we expect Betts and Yamamoto to return by the postseason, there will be no major changes."

"Dodgers Nation" reported, "As the calendar turns to July, the MLB trade deadline approaches. It’s an opportunity to acquire players that can strengthen the Dodgers’ roster. However, the Dodgers seem to have no such plans, believing in Betts."

Gomes added, "We believe in Betts. He will be prepared to play shortstop upon his return."

The outlet also noted, "In the long term, the Dodgers might decide to keep Miguel Rojas at shortstop and move Betts back to second base. Rojas has seen increased playing time due to Betts' injury."

Due to the expectation of Betts' return and the option of using Rojas at shortstop, the likelihood of acquiring a shortstop through trade is slim.먹튀검증