Mookie Betts took responsibility for an eighth-inning error that broke up a perfect game bid by teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto during the Los Angeles Dodgers' game on June 13, 2026.
"Just a routine ground ball that I missed. That's no excuse. I'm not making any excuses," Betts said during a press conference. The Dodgers outfielder refused to make excuses despite difficult field conditions, stating "I should have made the play." Betts noted he makes that play nine times out of 10.
Betts praised Yamamoto's performance throughout the outing, explaining the pitcher's effectiveness. "He's got so many weapons, so many different ways to get you out," he stated. The battery mixed pitches effectively to keep hitters off balance, as Betts observed: "They did a great job mixing it up and he goes about each at bat differently." Rush called pitches for Yamamoto during the performance.
Despite being fully aware of the perfect game situation, Betts felt no additional pressure. "I was very aware. I mean, I knew everything going on. I mean, I didn't have any extra pressure," he explained. Yamamoto had previously taken a no-hitter into the ninth inning in 2025. After the error, Yamamoto gave Betts a supportive tap between innings, demonstrating the team's unity.
Betts emphasized that team success remained the primary focus over individual achievements. "I think us winning is the most important thing. That's all we care about," he said. During the press conference, Betts also praised teammate Shohei Ohtani, calling him "the best player in the world." Dave came to get Yamamoto at the end of his outing as the Dodgers managed the situation.