#will-smith

#will-smith

The Los Angeles Dodgers began their National League Division Series matchup against the Philadelphia Phillies without Will Smith in the lineup for a third consecutive playoff game. Smith also did not appear in the Wild Card Series and his absence extended back to Sept. 10, when the Dodgers placed on him on the 10-day injured list. The official designation at the time was a right hand contusion, but it was later determined Smith suffered a hairline fracture.

He's been dealing with right hand trouble since being hit by a foul ball in the second inning on Sept. 2. Smith initially remained in the game but was pinch-hit for in the third inning. The Dodgers kept him on their active roster despite Smith not playing again until Sept. 9. There was an expectation he would be back the day prior but the Dodgers elected to delay that with the hope Smith would ultimately start two of the three games in their series against the Colorado Rockies.

There might be some one-handed swings. I don't know if he's going to be using his top hand,

Looks like Chuckie Robinson is here in San Francisco todayNo roster move announced yet, but probably not a great sign regarding Will Smith's hand bone bruise. Dave Roberts acknowledged yesterday they were considering the IL for Smith, thinking a week of rest might help- Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) September 13, 2025

Los Angeles Dodgers star Will Smith has firmly established himself as one of the best catchers in baseball. The former first round pick out of Louisville has made three-straight All-Star appearances. Smith has been a core member on two World Series teams. He's proven to be an above-average defensive catcher, an excellent offensive catcher in terms of bat-to-ball skills, and ultimately one of the most well-rounded players at his position in the sport.

I think we've done a very good job of kind of building equity into him as far as the workload and being able to push him at certain times," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of Smith. Roberts added the Dodgers went into the Rockies series planning to have Smith and Dalton Rushing split the four games at catcher. Smith was back in the lineup Tuesday and Wednesday.

"It's been a grind, it's been an adjustment trying to understand not only my role, but exactly how to be successful in my role".