Mookie Betts Reflects on LA Tenure During Thanksgiving Charity Event

The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the 2025 MLB offseason riding the momentum of back-to-back World Series championships, and star shortstop Mookie Betts took a moment to express his appreciation for the city that has embraced him. The eight-time All-Star, who will have spent more time with the Dodgers than with the Boston Red Sox once the 2026 season begins, reflected on his journey while hosting his annual Thanksgiving charity event.

During the “Thanksgiving Grab & Go,” part of Betts’ 50/50 Foundation and the Dodgers Foundation, the outfielder-turned-shortstop spoke candidly about his connection to Los Angeles. The event provided meals to hundreds of local families, tying his philanthropy directly to his gratitude for the community that welcomed him.

“Yeah, I mean, uh, you know, it’s kind of weird. It seems, uh, didn’t seem like it’s been that long but it has been a long time. Um, you know ever since I’ve been here, you know at first was COVID so um a beautiful thing. I got to kinda ease my way into the city. Um it’s just been love from day one. And I love being a Dodger. Love the city of L.A. That’s why I’m out here today,” Betts said in a video shared on X by Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain.

The moment quickly resonated on social media, with fans applauding Betts’ authenticity and humility. His words carry added significance as 2025 marks his sixth full season in Los Angeles, officially tying the length of his tenure in Boston.

1. A Champion on and off the Field

Betts’ connection to Los Angeles extends beyond his on-field achievements. As a four-time World Series champion and 2025 Roberto Clemente Award winner, he has consistently demonstrated leadership, both in the clubhouse and within the community. The Thanksgiving event reflects his commitment to philanthropy, using his platform to provide for those in need while celebrating the city that has supported him. Hundreds of meals were distributed, showcasing the tangible impact of his outreach and the values he prioritizes off the field. Fans have embraced Betts not just as a superstar, but as a figure who embodies humility and service. His ability to balance elite performance with community engagement strengthens his status as a role model within Major League Baseball. The combination of championship success and charitable leadership underscores why Betts has become an enduring figure in Los Angeles, symbolizing both excellence and responsibility.

2. Reflection on Six Years in LA

Betts’ remarks also serve as a reflection on his personal and professional growth since joining the Dodgers. He arrived during a challenging period marked by COVID-19, which initially shaped his introduction to the city and team. Despite the unusual circumstances, Betts quickly became a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ roster, helping the team secure multiple championships while earning accolades for his consistency and versatility. Transitioning from outfielder to shortstop, he adapted seamlessly to meet the team’s needs. Social media amplified his reflections, with fans celebrating his candid acknowledgment of the city’s support. The comments resonated particularly because Betts has spent as much time in Los Angeles as he did in Boston, highlighting the lasting bond he has formed with the community. By tying his charity work to his gratitude, Betts demonstrates that his commitment to the city extends beyond baseball, shaping a legacy that includes both athletic excellence and civic engagement.

3. Leadership Beyond Baseball

Betts’ Thanksgiving event also illustrates the broader impact of athletes as community leaders. Through the 50/50 Foundation and Dodgers Foundation, he channels resources and attention toward meaningful causes, showing that leadership extends beyond the diamond. His message resonates with younger players and fans alike, emphasizing gratitude, humility, and the importance of giving back. It highlights how elite athletes can leverage their platforms to make a difference in the cities they represent. For the Dodgers, Betts’ presence provides stability and continuity both on the field and within the community. His combination of performance, professionalism, and philanthropy sets a standard for teammates and future stars alike. As the MLB offseason progresses, Betts’ reflections serve as a reminder of his enduring connection to Los Angeles, a city that has become home and a source of inspiration for his charitable endeavors.