MLB 2026: Mookie Betts Returning from Injury

MLB 2026 Buzz: Mookie Betts Set To Return From Injured List
Updated May 10, 2026 11:20 p.m. ET
The offseason and spring training are behind the MLB, but there is still plenty of news to cover. On May 10, Mookie Betts, shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is set to return from the injured list on Monday, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts. Betts had sustained an oblique injury on April 4 and has not played since. Following a month-long absence, he participated in three rehab games at the AAA level in Oklahoma City and is expected to rejoin the major league team. Before his injury, Betts had a batting line of .179/.281/.429 and was batting third in the Dodgers' lineup, which raises questions about his placement upon his return.
On May 9, the Los Angeles Dodgers claimed left-handed pitcher Charlie Barnes from the Chicago Cubs. To make space on the 40-man roster, infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman was transferred to the 60-day injured list. Barnes had only pitched once for Chicago this season, giving up four runs (three earned) in three innings of relief on April 13. He was optioned twice by the Cubs this season and had been playing in the minors before the roster shift. Now, he heads to Los Angeles to bolster the Dodgers' pitching staff as Tyler Glasnow continues his recovery from a back injury and Blake Snell returns.
The Cleveland Guardians traded for catcher Patrick Bailey from the San Francisco Giants. In return, the Giants received minor-league left-hander Matt Wilkinson and the 29th pick in the 2026 amateur draft. Cleveland moved catcher Bo Naylor to Triple-A Columbus to accommodate Bailey. Despite being recognized as a top defensive catcher, Bailey had struggled offensively this season, hitting only .146 with one home run and five RBIs in 89 plate appearances.
On May 8, Blake Snell of the Dodgers is set to make his season debut on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves, as reported by the California Post. Snell, activated from the 15-day injured list, had missed more than a month due to shoulder fatigue. He last pitched in a rehab game where he gave up two runs over four innings. The game coincides with his bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium.
Additionally, the Miami Marlins called up left-handed pitching prospect Robby Snelling from Triple-A Jacksonville, who is set to make his MLB debut on Friday against the Washington Nationals. Snelling expressed feelings of surreal excitement and mentioned his need to adjust back into the MLB setting after missing the initial 40-man roster.
Lastly, Bryce Miller is set to return to the Seattle Mariners' rotation after recovering from a left oblique strain sustained early in spring training.

Mookie Betts’ anticipated return is expected to significantly impact the Dodgers as they continue their push in the season.