Mookie Betts has been worth every penny

The Dodgers knew what kind of player they were getting in Mookie Betts when they signed him to a 12-year extension worth $365 million back in July. He was arguably a top-three player in all of baseball. Along with that honor, he was an American League MVP and World Series champion.

Even with all those accolades, he’s been better as advertised.

“He’s really impacted us on the hitting side, as far as understanding the value of winning 90 feet, controlling the strike zone,” manager Dave Roberts said when asked about what Betts has added to the Dodgers.

Betts finished the quick season with 16 homers and 39 RBI, a full-season pace of about 45 home runs and 120 RBI. Not too bad at all if you ask me. His hot bat has carried over into October, as he’s hitting .368 so far during the postseason. Betts hasn’t hit a homer yet, but he’s been doing everything else you could ask of him at the plate, in the outfield and on the bases.

“When a player of his magnitude talks about it and echos it and does it every at bat of every game, it certainly goes a long way,” Roberts said. “Defensively he’s a game changer. He does a lot on the bases. He makes everyone around him better.”

News and notes

• Edwin Rios (groin strain) has improved and ran at 75 percent yesterday. The club still hasn’t decided whether or not he’ll be on the roster.
• In addition to Rios being potentially added to the roster, Roberts said there’s a chance they can make some changes in the bullpen.
• Whether or not he starts or comes out of the bullpen, Julio Urias is “going to pitch meaningful innings,” according to Roberts.