Dodgers Scratch Will Smith From Lineup Right Before First Pitch as Injury Concern Grows

"The Los Angeles Dodgers scratched All-Star catcher Will Smith from the team's lineup right before the first pitch of Wednesday's game against the Colorado Rockies. Smith just returned on Tuesday for the first time since last week due to a hand injury. Ben Rortvedt replaced Smith at catcher and is batting ninth. According to Kirsten Watson on SportsNet LA, manager Dave Roberts said Smith's hand "flared up on him" before the game."

"Smith initially suffered the injury last Wednesday when a foul ball hit him on the hand while he was catching. Roberts said Smith is dealing with a bone bruise in his hand, and will likely have to play through it for the rest of the season. On Tuesday, in his first game back, Smith went 1-for-4 with a double. On the year, Smith is slashing .296/.404/.497 with 17 home runs and 61 runs batted in."

Will Smith was scratched from the Dodgers' lineup before Wednesday's game against the Colorado Rockies after his hand flared up. He had returned Tuesday after missing time because a foul ball struck his hand while catching last Wednesday. Ben Rortvedt started at catcher and batted ninth as the only other active catcher after Dalton Rushing was placed on the injured list. Chuckie Robinson remains on the 40-man roster but was optioned and is only eligible for recall if someone is placed on the IL. Roberts said Smith has a bone bruise and will likely play through it.

Read at Dodgers Nation