Mookie Betts Hits Grand Slam in Dodgers Spring Training Victory Over Padres

Mookie Betts announced his readiness for the 2026 season in emphatic fashion today, launching a first-inning grand slam to power the Los Angeles Dodgers to a convincing 9-4 victory over the San Diego Padres at Camelback Ranch. The 33-year-old superstar outfielder connected on a 2-1 fastball from Padres starter Yu Darvish, sending the ball 425 feet over the left-field wall and setting the tone for what would become a dominant offensive performance by the defending National League West champions.

Betts' grand slam was the highlight of a four-hit, five-RBI performance that showcased the elite hitting ability that has made him one of baseball's most valuable players throughout his career. The former AL MVP looked locked in at the plate, working counts effectively and displaying the aggressive approach that helped him drive in 107 runs last season. "I feel great physically, and my timing is where it needs to be," Betts said after the game. "Spring training is about getting your work in, but it's always nice when you can help the team win while doing it."

The Dodgers' offensive explosion continued beyond Betts' heroics, with Freddie Freeman contributing three hits and two RBIs while Will Smith added a two-run homer in the sixth inning. The balanced attack demonstrated the depth and quality that has made Los Angeles the preseason favorite to repeat as division champions, despite increased competition from the Padres and other NL West rivals. Manager Dave Roberts praised his team's approach at the plate, noting the patience and selective aggression that characterized their at-bats throughout the contest.

Darvish, who signed a lucrative extension with San Diego during the offseason, struggled with his command in his second spring appearance, allowing six runs in just two-plus innings of work. The veteran right-hander appeared to be working on specific aspects of his delivery rather than focusing purely on results, which is typical for early spring training outings. Padres manager Mike Shildt emphasized that the results were less important than the process for his veteran starter, who is expected to anchor the rotation alongside Joe Musgrove and Dylan Cease.

The victory improved the Dodgers' Cactus League record to 4-1, as they continue to build momentum toward Opening Day on March 28th against the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium. Betts' early-season form has been particularly encouraging for an organization hoping to make another deep playoff run, with the outfielder appearing fully recovered from the minor hip issue that limited him during portions of last season. His swing looked smooth and powerful, generating the kind of exit velocity that made him a consistent threat for 25-30 home runs throughout his prime years.

For the Padres, the loss served as a reminder of the work still needed to close the gap with their division rivals, despite significant offseason additions including pitcher Dylan Cease and outfielder Teoscar Hernández. The team showed flashes of their potential with strong performances from Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado, but couldn't match the Dodgers' consistent offensive pressure throughout the game. As spring training continues, both teams will use these competitive matchups to fine-tune their approaches before the regular season begins in earnest. Today's result suggests that the NL West race could be as compelling as ever, with both franchises possessing the talent necessary to compete for playoff positioning.