The Dodgers were able to lock up Mookie Betts for an additional 12 years today. The deal was made official when President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman and Mookie made an appearance at a press conference to announce it this afternoon.
I love being here. I love everything about being here.
During the press conference, Mookie revealed that he would not want a long-term agreement with anyone else. The Dodgers were apparently a place he preferred, demonstrated by the fact that he had turned down a large stretch of the Red Sox.
I don’t know if I ever thought of 13 years. I know this is essentially what I have been doing all my life and what I have been working for all my life. Obviously I have to thank my parents for being there each and every one of the summer games … I don’t think we ever imagined it would be 13 years old. But I don’t think it’s too surprising either. Obviously it’s a long-term commitment, but I wouldn’t want it with anyone other than an organization like this.
The fact that the Dodgers were willing to spend an additional 12 years with Mookie Betts should tell you everything you need to know about how they see it. Los Angeles has not been willing to commit to long-term deals like this in the past, even for superstars. The team offered Bryce Harper a massive contract, but it wasn’t for the duration Mookie just got.
The fact that Mookie is equally committed to the Dodgers should also tell him everything you need to know about him. Mookie had previously said he was unwilling to talk about extensions during the season, but it appears Los Angeles changed his mind. He is here to stay, let’s go get some rings.
The Dodgers may have announced their 30-man roster online on opening day.
