20 Moments That Made Mookie Betts a Star
Mookie Betts became an icon through clutch performances, electric energy, and unforgettable baseball brilliance.
- Chris Graciano
- 5 min read
Mookie Betts didn’t just arrive in the majors. He exploded onto the scene with pure talent. Over the years, he’s delivered moments that showcase why he’s among the game’s elite, from dazzling catches to history-making hits. This list captures the top 20 turning points that built his legacy and turned him into a fan favorite across the league.
1. First MLB Hit – June 29, 2014
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
In his debut game at Yankee Stadium, Betts punched a clean single to right. It wasn’t a towering blast or a dramatic walk-off — it was pure baseball skill.
2. Grand Slam vs. Rays – April 22, 2016
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Batting leadoff, Betts crushed a grand slam that rocked Fenway Park. The ball soared over the Green Monster, silencing any doubts about his power.
3. 3-Homer Game vs. Orioles – May 31, 2016
Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
In one of the most electric nights of his career, Betts blasted three home runs against Baltimore. Each shot looked cleaner than the last. It wasn’t just a hot streak — it was a warning to pitchers across the league.
4. Golden Glove – 2023
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Betts’ range and instincts earned him the Golden Glove in just his second full season in 2018 and then continued to win it in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Diving catches and frozen-rope throws became his trademark.
5. Hitting for the Cycle – August 9, 2018
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Betts became the 21st player in Red Sox history to hit for the cycle, completing it with a triple. It was the perfect snapshot of his all-around skill set. Every type of hit, all in one night.
6. MVP Season – 2018
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That year, Betts led the majors in runs, slugging, and WAR while hitting .346. He was untouchable at the plate and flawless in the field. With a Silver Slugger and another Golden Glove, he was the clear choice for MVP.
7. World Series Champion – 2018
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Betts helped lead Boston to a dominant championship run, topping it off with key plays in the Fall Classic. His presence in the lineup was a constant threat. He didn’t just contribute — he elevated the team.
8. Robbing a Homer – July 12, 2018
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In one of his signature defensive moments, Betts leapt high at the wall to rob a home run at Fenway. The crowd erupted as he flashed his glove with a grin.
9. Leadoff Homer in ALCS Game 6 – 2018
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Betts wasted no time, launching a home run on the first pitch of Game 6 against the Astros. It was a statement swing that set the tone for the clincher.
10. Walk-Off Catch vs. Blue Jays – July 2019
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Betts sealed the win with a diving catch in shallow right, ending the game in dramatic fashion. He covered ground like a blur. The timing and execution were flawless.
11. Walk-Off Hit – July 27, 2018
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Oozing with confidence, Betts smacked a walk-off double that lifted Boston over Minnesota. He pumped his fists, surrounded by teammates.
12. 5-Hit Game vs. Royals – August 26, 2016
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Betts went a perfect 5-for-5 with two homers and eight RBIs in one of the most dominant offensive nights of his career. Everything he touched found grass — or the seats.
13. 3-Homer Game Again – August 14, 2016
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Less than three months after his first, Betts hit another three-homer game — this time versus the Diamondbacks. Few players ever do it once. He made it look routine.
14. Trade to the Dodgers – February 2020
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It shook Boston fans, but the blockbuster trade took Betts to L.A., launching the next chapter of his career. Some stars shrink in a new city — Mookie thrived. The pressure only pushed him higher.
15. 3-Homer Game with Dodgers – August 13, 2020
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Now wearing Dodger blue, Betts tied an MLB record with his sixth career three-homer game. He joined legends like Sammy Sosa and Johnny Mize. The uniform changed, but the results didn’t.
16. 2020 NLCS Game 6 Defense
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Betts turned the tide with a jaw-dropping catch at the wall, shifting momentum in the Dodgers’ favor. The Braves were stunned. It was a highlight that defined the series.
17. World Series Win with Dodgers – 2020
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Betts was pivotal in the Dodgers’ first title since 1988, bringing both bat and glove to the biggest stage. His base running, defense, and key hits made the difference. He’s now a two-time champ, in two different leagues.
18. 3-Stolen Base Game – September 2020
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Against the Padres, Betts swiped three bags in one game, showing he still had elite wheels. Speed, smarts, and timing — all on full display. It was vintage Mookie.
19. 2023 All-Star Game Leadoff Hit
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Starting for the National League, Betts laced a single to kick things off at the Midsummer Classic. Cool, composed, and effective — it was classic Betts.
20. Career Milestone: 200th Home Run – July 2022
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He launched his 200th career homer with the style and swing fans have come to love. It was not a lucky shot — just another example of his consistency. The milestone was more than a number. It was a reminder of how far he’s come.