Mookie Betts Sets Retirement Timeline

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Mookie Betts has already accomplished more than most players dream of, and now the Los Angeles Dodgers star has shared a clear vision for how his baseball journey will eventually come to an end. Appearing on the Roku miniseries What Drives You with John Cena, Betts confirmed that he plans to retire following the 2032 season, when his current contract with the Dodgers expires.

By that point, Betts will be 40 years old, a milestone that has shaped his thinking about life beyond baseball. More than accolades or records, family has become the guiding factor in his decision. 

Betts explained that his daughter will be 14 and his son will be 10 when his playing days conclude, and he wants to be present for them in the same way his own parents were throughout his upbringing.

While the timeline is now set, Betts acknowledged that stepping away from the game will not come easily. Baseball has defined his daily routine and personal identity for decades, from the clubhouse atmosphere to the long flights and deep relationships formed over the years. Letting go of that structure, he admitted, will be difficult, even if he knows it is the right choice for his family.

Betts’ résumé leaves little doubt about his place among the game’s elite. A four-time World Series champion, he captured one title with the Boston Red Sox and three with the Dodgers. 

He was named the American League MVP in 2018 and has consistently been one of baseball’s most complete players, combining elite offense with Gold Glove-caliber defense and leadership.

After being acquired by Los Angeles in a blockbuster trade from Boston ahead of the 2020 season, Betts quickly became a cornerstone of the franchise. The Dodgers signed him to a 12-year, $365 million extension in July 2020, signaling their long-term commitment to building around him.

Over six seasons in Dodger blue, Betts has posted an .867 OPS, earned four All-Star selections, and played a central role in championship runs in 2020 and again during the back-to-back titles in 2024 and 2025.

Now 33 years old and preparing to enter his 13th Major League season in 2026, Betts remains firmly focused on the present. The Dodgers have continued to strengthen their roster this offseason, positioning themselves for another deep postseason run and a potential third straight championship.

Even with a retirement date on the horizon, Betts’ impact on the field remains unchanged. His leadership, production, and championship pedigree continue to make him one of the most important figures in baseball, and for the Dodgers, the window to win with Betts at the center is still very much open.