SAN DIEGO — Mookie Betts is showing signs of a significant offensive resurgence for the Los Angeles Dodgers, helping lead the team to a 4-2 victory over the San Diego Padres on Sunday at Petco Park.

Betts delivered a key two-run single in the fifth inning with the bases loaded off Padres reliever Michael King, turning a narrow one-run lead into a more comfortable three-run advantage. His performance was a continuation of a recent hot streak that has seen him regain the form that was lost due to injuries and illness over the past two seasons.

The 31-year-old outfielder has struggled at times since breaking his left hand midway through the 2024 season. Following that injury, Betts’ production dipped, batting just .263 after returning from the injured list. Last year, a bout with norovirus early in the season caused significant weight loss and contributed to a career-low .258 batting average. This season began with a strained oblique injury further hampering his consistency.

However, Betts has shown considerable improvement over the last two weeks. In his last 14 games, he has hit .368 with five home runs and 10 RBIs. In the three games preceding Sunday’s contest, Betts homered in each outing and he went 2-for-4 in the latest matchup. The Dodgers have achieved a 10-4 record during this stretch.

Betts credits his turnaround to renewed confidence and preparation. “I feel like I’m preparing the right way. I find confidence in the way I prepare every day, and that allows me to have confidence when I step in the box,” he said. His manager, Dave Roberts, has noticed a change in Betts’ approach, describing it as more intentional and aggressive with less hesitation at the plate. Roberts pointed to a recent first-pitch home run Betts hit off former Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler as a reflection of this mindset.

Currently batting .236 for the season, Betts acknowledged that pitchers do not appear to be pitching around him, unlike some of the league’s other top hitters. Defensively, Betts has remained a strong presence, co-leading National League shortstops in defensive runs saved.

The combination of improved offense and steady defense suggests Betts is on a clear path back to the level of play that made him one of baseball’s elite. As the Dodgers continue their push through the season, their performance remains closely tied to Betts’ overall effectiveness at the plate.