Mookie’s monster meal: The deal that brought Betts to the Dodger table

Mookie Betts makes contact. (AP/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

A new era in Los Angeles has just begun. The long-term extension of one of MLB’s biggest stars, Mookie Betts, became official today. Boston’s homegrown talent signed a 12-year mega-deal worth $392 million, in addition to his 2020 1-year deal, linking him to the Los Angeles Dodgers until 2032.

The Dodgers official Twitter sent out a tweet early this afternoon, confirming Betts’ long-term commitment to the organization.

The 27-year-old superstar right-fielder showed great discipline and focus during a press conference following the official signing. He continuously displayed why he will do great in a place like Los Angeles. Betts highlighted the Dodger organization, from Andrew Friedman’s front office down to the players and culture. He praised the stacked team that should put fear into the hearts of every baseball team in major league baseball.

Betts also thanked his parents several times, stating that he would not be where he is right now if it was not for the support of his parents and family. He repeatedly mentioned that the long-term deal that he signed was something that he and his family had been working towards his entire life and the Dodgers organization made that happen.

When asked at the press conference if he had ever anticipated a day where he would sign a 13- year deal, Betts simply replied by saying “I don’t know if I ever thought about 13 years, I do know that this is essentially what I’ve been doing my whole life and what I’ve been working towards my whole life.”

Betts continued by adding, “But I don’t think it’s very surprising either. Obviously it’s a long-term commitment, but I wouldn’t want it with anybody else other than an organization like this.”

To say this is a good day in Los Angeles professional sports is an understatement.