Mookie Betts was scratched from co-hosting the 2026 MLB Awards after a minor wrist issue on July 1, leaving comedian Roy Wood Jr. to scout replacements. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts immediately pitched Shohei Ohtani as the top choice, calling him ‘wittier than people think’—a nod to Betts’ past role alongside Wood in 2025.
Why did Betts miss the awards?
Betts’ wrist concern—reportedly sidelining him for a July 1 game—made hosting impractical. Wood, who teamed with Betts at last year’s ceremony, sought fresh faces. Roberts’ suggestion came during All-Star Week in Philadelphia, where he lobbied for Ohtani’s charisma without directly comparing him to Betts.
Who else did Roberts propose?
Roberts tossed out **Bryce Harper**, **Mike Trout**, and even his own Dodgers catcher **Kiké Hernández**, joking the latter would be ‘hilarious.’ His list avoided bias, though Ohtani’s two-way star power stood out. Wood pressed Roberts on ‘clubhouse chemistry,’ prompting a quick clarification: *‘I did not say Shohei was better than Mookie.’*
What’s next for the awards?
The **fourth annual MLB Awards**, set for November, will feature Wood and one of Roberts’ picks. Ohtani’s inclusion would mark a first for the two-way phenom in a high-profile hosting role. Betts’ absence highlights how injuries can reshape even off-field responsibilities—though his 2025 co-hosting drew praise for balancing humor with sportsmanship.
How did Betts handle hosting before?
Last year’s ceremony saw Betts and Wood mix sharp banter with lighthearted moments, including a nod to Betts’ 2023 MVP season. His quick wit and familiarity with MLB’s elite made him a natural fit. This year’s wrist issue, however, forced a pivot—one Roberts framed as an opportunity to spotlight other talents.