Dodgers Make Will Smith Change Before Braves Game

“Shuffle to the Dodgers lineup tonight. Will Smith batting second for the first time this year, Kyle Tucker down to sixth and Max Muncy eighth,” Jack Harris wrote on X.

Smith’s move up in the order comes during another solid offensive season for the veteran, despite dealing with back tightness throughout the early part of the season. Entering Friday’s matchup, the three-time All-Star hitter carried a .269 AVG, good for fifth amongst NL catchers, and an OPS of .721, along with three home runs. 

Meanwhile, Tucker’s move to sixth comes amidst an inconsistent offensive start in his first year in Los Angeles. Hitting .252, the four-time All-Star and former Silver Slugger will be looking to live up to the $240 million contract he signed with the Dodgers in January. 

Despite batting eighth, Max Muncy has continued to provide strong offensive production near the middle of the order for Los Angeles, as he is currently maintaining a career-high .286 AVG alongside five home runs. 

Friday’s adjustments against Sale could prove to be a matchup-specific move, though Los Angeles may continue experimenting with one of the league’s most talented lineups. As they enter their three-game home series against the Braves on Friday, the Dodgers look to remain atop the NL West, with the San Diego Padres only one game behind.