Dodgers' Mookie Betts dominates yet another sport

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts is one of the best players in MLB. An eight-time MLB All-Star, former American League MVP and six-time Silver Slugger—to name just a few of his many accolades—Betts has achieved the level of success many dream of as a professional athlete.

Betts' athletic success is not limited to baseball. While he played infielder as a youth, Betts was also a standout basketball player in high school and was named his district's most valuable player his senior year. He even excelled at bowling.

Now, Betts has taken on pickleball as his next sporting endeavor. Betts is one of many who play pickleball, which has become one of the fastest-growing recreational sports in the United States. Many celebrities and athletes have invested in the ever-growing sport, most notably including LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Patrick Mahomes.

Betts explained in detail that he always carries his pickleball equipment with him when he travels so he can play at any time.

“Anywhere,” Betts told Rob Bradford on the “Baseball Isn't Boring” podcast. “It doesn't matter what state or country I'm in. … I always have my bat, my two balls and shoes.”

Playing anywhere and at any time means that while Betts encounters plans on the field, he often starts a conversation with them.

“Yeah, but I don't care (if I get recognized). … It helps because people want to play. I want to play and they want to play with me,” Betts said. “They're usually pretty laid back. They might take a picture afterward or something, but I don't care. I just like being around people. … When I'm out there with these random people, I chat with them, talk to them – especially between games, getting to know them. How often do they come here?”

Betts added that his skill level in the sport is 5.0 and he may plan to compete in some professional tournaments in the future.

It should come as no surprise that Betts has already found success in pickleball. Not only is Betts a great athlete, but he is also one of the Dodgers' most versatile players. Betts plays virtually every position the team needs, whether it's right wing, shortstop or second baseman.

Given his success, it seems natural that Betts has already adapted to playing pickleball at a high level.