Fenway Park has always been a place of gratitude! Betts revealed the reason for his recent absence from games.

Mookie Betts, who previously played six seasons with the Boston Red Sox and currently plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers, expressed his happiness about returning to Fenway Park during the third game of the series against the Red Sox today. After the game, Betts shared his feelings about being back at this significant venue for him and also explained why he had missed recent games.

Betts left the team on the 26th due to "personal reasons" to return to his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, which caused him to miss the first game of the recent series against the Red Sox. Today, Betts returned to the starting lineup and played a leading role, achieving one hit and one walk in four at-bats. Unfortunately, he couldn't help the Dodgers avoid defeat, as they lost 3-4, marking their second consecutive loss.

After the game, Betts shared his thoughts on returning to Fenway Park, stating, "I mean, I think it's really cool to see all the people here, and obviously, Fenway Park is a very special place, and in a way, it holds a special place in my heart. It's always great to come back to this ballpark and see how things have changed over time, but I'm also very happy being in Los Angeles. I'm grateful for my life, and if there's a place I always feel thankful for, it's this one."

Betts then discussed his earlier departure due to "personal reasons," saying, "Oh, I'm good. I just had to, as you said, go home, handle some family matters, and be with my mom. But I'm fine, and I know how to keep improving myself, you know, we'll see."

When pressed by reporters, Betts revealed that the "personal reasons" were due to the passing of his stepfather, which necessitated his return home to support his mother and family. "Of course, I had to. My stepfather passed away, so I needed to be there for my mom during this tough time. He came into my life when I was in fourth grade, and it's been hard for me and my family. You know, I had to be there for my mom."