Dodgers shortstop Betts to undergo MRI for back pain, injury described as "moderate rather than severe"

Just as the Dodgers' top lineup was beginning to click, their back-to-back wins over the Washington Nationals were tinged with concern as they await news on Mookie Betts' injury.

In today's Dodgers 10-5 victory over the Nationals, Betts was replaced at shortstop in the bottom of the first inning. In his only plate appearance, he drew a walk against Nationals right-hander Jake Irvin, and then felt discomfort in his lower right back while running home from first base on Freddie Freeman's two-run double.

Manager Dave Roberts indicated Betts is unlikely to play in the coming days. The Dodgers will consider bringing an additional player to Washington and Toronto, either as a backup on the trip or to be activated if Betts needs to be placed on the injured list. Betts will undergo an MRI on his back later today.

“It's definitely moderate rather than severe,” Roberts said.

Miguel Rojas, who replaced Betts at shortstop, contributed with a sacrifice fly for a run and showed strong defense, including a remarkable throw from a prone position in the seventh inning to tag out James Wood at first base. Rojas and Alex Freeland, who currently form the Dodgers' second base rotation, will be the primary options at shortstop in the short term.

If Betts' back injury requires a longer-term solution, Hyeseong Kim is likely to be called up from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Kim performed well in spring training but began the season in the minors as the Dodgers wanted him to further refine his swing. Through today, Kim has nine hits in 26 at-bats over six Triple-A games, batting .346 with seven strikeouts and four walks.

Like other members of the Dodgers' top lineup, Betts started the season slowly at the plate, but yesterday at Nationals Park he had two hits in six at-bats, including a go-ahead two-run homer. In the early part of his second full season as the Dodgers' starting shortstop, he has continued to excel defensively.

“It's disappointing for him, because we were just starting to get going, and his defensive performance has been outstanding. He's a key part of our strategy,” Roberts said. “Any time you miss games, it takes time to regain rhythm. So it's disappointing for him, but hopefully this isn't a long-term issue.”