Dodgers shortstop Bates is out with left toe contusion and is out for filming, Roberts teases: 'You can play on behalf of you when it matters'

Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts accidentally kicked his left toe at home last night and coach Dave Roberts confirmed he would be X-rayed. The star, who missed the opening game of today's series against the Yankees, is currently on the daily watch list.

While the Dodgers have been plagued by injuries this season (especially with their pitchers) and it was announced that backup pitcher Evan Phillips would undergo season-reimbursement surgery next week, Bates' injury appears to be a short-term surprise — similar to Freddie Freeman's bathroom slip in April that aggravated an old right ankle injury (Freeman was on the 10-day injury list at the time). "It's not a one-way street, this injury is too bizarre," Roberts said helplessly.

Bates was scheduled to play on Friday, but suddenly felt pain while putting on his shoes. The team is cautiously optimistic about its long-term impact and will still have to wait for the results of the film. "We'll take care of it," said Brandon Gomes, general manager, "and the depth of the squad ensures operational flexibility." Miguel Rojas took the shortstop position.

In 53 games this season, Bates has a batting average of 0.254 and an attack index of 0.742. Roberts hinted in a playful tone that he could still come off the bench: "Tell Aaron Boone that we'll play him in the key seats. "