Mookie Betts says pain in his hip is gone

Dave Roberts provided another update on Mookie Betts on Thursday, saying Betts could return potentially as early as next week.

“He was going to do some swinging later today in the cage,” Roberts said. “It’s a Sunday simulated game here. Do some things potentially on Monday and Tuesday. I don’t know [if he’ll do a] rehab assignment or get guys to do it here at Dodger Stadium. If all goes well, sometime next week he’ll be active.”

Betts spent time on the injured list after the All-Star break and is on the IL again after his latest hip injury, which has sidelined him for more than a week.

The outfielder met with team doctors and was diagnosed with a bone spur in his hip. He recently received a cortisone shot, which has really helped with the pain.

“He said [the pain] was gone, and he said it with a smile,” Roberts said. “I haven’t seen him smile like that in some time.”

Well, that’s certainly some encouraging news.

Roberts recently mentioned Betts going on a rehab assignment, but he added today that the decision will be entirely up to Betts.

“It’s more with the training staff and Mookie figuring out how to attack it as far as preparing him to be active,” Roberts said. “If it’s him being in a game or taking at bats, or simulating a game. Whatever he feels is best to prepare him, we’ll work with that.”

Being back for next weeks Padres series looks like it won’t happen, but there’s a possibility he’s back for next weekend’s series against the Rockies.

Other news and notes

• Dodgers activated Victor González and optioned Mitch White. González was placed on the injured list on August 6 with a right knee inflammation. He made a rehab start for the Quakes on Tuesday, allowing three runs in ¹⁄₃ innings of work with one strikeout.

This move makes sense, with the Dodgers needing an extra arm for today’s bullpen game.

Roberts was asked whether or not Mitch White has earned a spot in the starting rotation, here was his reply:

“I’m not sure. He’s done everything he can do to make a case to show he’s worthy of consideration. With off days and how we’re managing our bullpen, there’s gymnastics that need to be done.”

• Tony Gonsolin threw a bullpen session. Roberts wasn’t present for it, but said he Gonsolin threw 20-25 pitches that consisted of only fastballs.