Mookie Betts Collapses With Strange Illness After Losing 7 Kg: What’s The Secret Behind The Dodgers Superstar’s Health?

Mookie Betts, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ superstar shortstop, has been at the center of headlines recently, but not for his usual on-field heroics. The eight-time All-Star has been sidelined by a mysterious illness that has led to a shocking 7 kg (approximately 15 pounds) weight loss, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike. As of March 23, 2025, the latest updates from the Dodgers provide some clarity on his condition, but questions remain: What’s behind this strange health scare, and how will it impact Betts and the defending World Series champions moving forward? Let’s dive into the details of Mookie Betts’ health crisis and explore what it means for his future.

A Sudden Health Scare Shocks the Baseball World

Mookie Betts has long been regarded as one of Major League Baseball’s (MLB) most durable and versatile players. Known for his elite performance at multiple positions—right field, second base, and now shortstop—Betts has consistently delivered for the Dodgers since joining the team in 2020. However, his 2025 season debut was abruptly halted before it even began. During the Dodgers’ trip to Japan for the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs, Betts fell ill, missing both the exhibition games and the regular season openers on March 18 and 19.

According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Betts first exhibited flu-like symptoms during the final week of spring training in Arizona. Initially, the team believed it was a minor setback, and after a medical evaluation, Betts was cleared to travel with the squad to Tokyo. Unfortunately, his condition worsened during the long flight and subsequent days in Japan. By the time the team arrived at the Tokyo Dome, Betts had lost nearly 15 pounds, a staggering drop for an athlete who typically plays at around 170-180 pounds. The severity of his dehydration and fatigue forced the Dodgers to rule him out of the Tokyo Series, with Miguel Rojas stepping in at shortstop.

The Mystery Illness: What We Know So Far

As of the latest updates on March 23, 2025, the exact nature of Betts’ illness remains unclear, adding an air of mystery to the situation. Roberts has described it as a “lingering illness” with flu-like symptoms, including an inability to keep food down, severe dehydration, and significant weight loss. Some speculation on platforms like X has pointed to norovirus—a highly contagious stomach bug—as a possible culprit, though no official diagnosis has been confirmed by the Dodgers’ medical staff.

What makes this case particularly alarming is the rapid weight loss. Losing 7 kg in a matter of days is unusual, even for someone battling a severe illness. Roberts noted that Betts was “still trying to find his way” in terms of regaining strength and weight, emphasizing the team’s caution to avoid soft-tissue injuries that could arise from his weakened state. The Dodgers made the decision to send Betts back to Los Angeles early from Tokyo, prioritizing his long-term health over a premature return for the season’s first two games.

Recent posts on X suggest that Betts is currently down to 157 pounds—well below his typical playing weight—but is feeling better and able to work out lightly. However, without a clear understanding of why he can’t retain food or regain weight, the Dodgers are taking a conservative approach. The team hopes he’ll be ready for their domestic opener against the Detroit Tigers on March 27, but there’s no guarantee until the root cause is identified.

Impact on the Dodgers: A Superstar’s Absence Felt

Mookie Betts’ absence is a significant blow to the Dodgers, who entered the 2025 season as favorites to repeat as World Series champions. With a lineup featuring Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and now Betts at shortstop, the team boasts unparalleled star power. Betts’ versatility, leadership, and offensive production—he hit .289 with 19 home runs and 75 RBIs in 2024 despite a midseason hand injury—make him irreplaceable.

In Tokyo, the Dodgers leaned on Miguel Rojas, a reliable veteran infielder, to fill the void. Rojas performed admirably, but he lacks Betts’ game-changing presence at the plate and in the field. The team still managed to split the series with the Cubs, thanks to strong performances from Ohtani and pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, but Betts’ absence underscored his importance to the roster.

Looking ahead, the Dodgers face a packed schedule, including a three-game Freeway Series against the Los Angeles Angels starting March 24, followed by their home opener. If Betts remains sidelined beyond March 27, the team may need to adjust its lineup further, potentially relying on utility player Tommy Edman or reevaluating their infield depth. For a team with championship aspirations, getting Betts back to full strength is a top priority.

Theories and Speculation: What’s Really Going On?

Without an official diagnosis, speculation about Betts’ condition has run rampant. Could it be a severe case of food poisoning from travel? A viral infection like norovirus, as some fans have suggested? Or perhaps an underlying condition exacerbated by the stress of a grueling MLB season and international travel? The Dodgers have ruled out anything contagious—none of the other 31 players in the traveling party showed symptoms—but the lack of clarity has fueled concern.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Dodgers’ team physician, recently emphasized the importance of caution with players like Betts early in the season. Dehydration and rapid weight loss can increase the risk of muscle strains or worse, which could sideline him for weeks or months. This conservative approach mirrors the team’s handling of Freddie Freeman’s son’s health scare in 2024, prioritizing player well-being over immediate results.

What’s Next for Mookie Betts?

As of March 23, 2025, Betts is back in Los Angeles, resting and working to rebuild his strength. The Dodgers are optimistic that a week of recovery in a familiar environment will help him regain the lost weight and return to form. Roberts has hinted that Betts could resume baseball activities soon, with an eye on the March 27 opener against the Tigers. However, the team won’t rush him back until they’re confident he’s fully recovered.

For fans eager to see Betts back in action, the coming days will be critical. Will the Dodgers uncover the “secret” behind his health scare? Is this a temporary setback or a sign of something more serious? Only time—and further medical updates—will tell.

Conclusion: Awaiting the Return of a Superstar

Mookie Betts’ collapse due to a strange illness after losing 7 kg has cast a shadow over the start of the 2025 MLB season. While the Dodgers have weathered his absence so far, his return can’t come soon enough for a team with sky-high expectations. As the situation unfolds, fans and analysts alike are left wondering: What’s the secret behind this health mystery, and how will it shape Betts’ season?

Stay tuned for the latest updates on Mookie Betts’ health and the Dodgers’ journey in 2025. Have thoughts or theories about his condition? Drop a comment below and join the conversation!