GLENDALE, Ariz. -- One of the biggest storylines for the Los Angeles Dodgers entering their spring matchup against the Los Angeles Angels was Mookie Betts making his first start at shortstop this spring.
At the plate, Betts finished 0-for-2, though the focus remained primarily on his defensive reps and overall comfort at the position rather than early offensive production.
Command Issues for Landon Knack
Knack ran into trouble early in his outing, struggling to locate consistently and failing to complete the first inning. The right-hander threw 26 pitches while recording just two outs, putting him behind hitters throughout the appearance.
The Angels capitalized on the command lapses, beginning with a two-run home run from designated hitter Vaughn Grissom. Shortly after, catcher Logan O'Hoppe added a solo homer to extend the early lead.
Make it back-to-back homers for the #Angels off Dodgers RHP Landon Knack. Logan O'Hoppe goes deep for the second time this spring. Went to right-center and left the bat at 107.4 mph.
— Rhett Bollinger (@RhettBollinger) March 1, 2026
Despite the rough start, spring outings often serve as opportunities for pitchers to refine mechanics and build rhythm rather than focus strictly on results.
Bullpen Settles the Game
Following Knack’s early exit, the Dodgers' bullpen delivered a strong collective effort. Right-handers Jack Dreyer, Blake Treinen, and Kyle Hurt each contributed scoreless innings to keep the game within reach.
THAT'S OUR DAWG STRIKING OUT THE SIDE 🐶🐶🐶#DodgersST⚾🌵 pic.twitter.com/oQhi3C8D9o
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) March 1, 2026
Left-hander Alex Vesia also turned in a clean appearance, striking out his lone batter and continuing a solid early spring stretch.
Offensive Highlights
The Dodgers' offense produced early scoring opportunities, beginning with an RBI double from Freddie Freeman in the first inning. In the second, Miguel Rojas added a sacrifice fly to bring home another run.
Game-tying solo shot the other way for JTIII 💣#DodgersST⚾🌵 pic.twitter.com/GdCq4ogAGs
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) March 1, 2026
A standout performance came from right fielder James Tibbs III, who went 2-for-3 with a home run.
Tibbs has been trending upward offensively in recent games, including a triple earlier in the week against the San Francisco Giants off Robbie Ray and a base hit against the Chicago Cubs yesterday.
Up Next
The Dodgers ultimately would beat the Angels by a score of 4-3, but continue to evaluate positional flexibility and pitching depth as camp progresses.
The Dodgers are scheduled to face the Colorado Rockies tomorrow with first pitch scheduled for 12:10 p.m. PST.
