Dodgers' Will Smith Announces Update Before MLB Playoffs

Will Smith Injury Update Emerges Before Diamondbacks Game

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Smith’s regular season has come to an end, but the team remains hopeful that his return will come in the opening round of the playoffs. Ahead of the Dodgers’ series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Smith was still seen wearing a splint on his right hand. Smith announced that he had not begun baseball activities yet and it would be a matter of his pain subsiding before he does, but the hope remains to be available for a postseason game next Tuesday.

"Will Smith is still wearing a splint on his broken hand. Said the hope is still that he gets to a place where he’s ready to go for next Tuesday’s start to the postseason, but it’ll be up to his pain tolerance on when he can start to ramp up baseball activities," wrote The Athletic's Fabian Ardaya.

Smith still not being able to resume baseball activities with postseason play beginning in a week has certainly complicated Los Angeles’ plans on repeating as World Series champions. Smith’s been one of the most valuable players on the team and possesses the ability of timely hitting, which is crucial in the playoffs. He also has taken strides forward defensively, throwing out baserunners at a high rate this season.

In Smith’s absence, Ben Rortvedt has emerged as the team’s primary catcher over rookie Dalton Rushing. Rortvedt has received high praise from Roberts and the pitching staff for his presence behind the plate. Rushing still figures to play a role for the Dodgers, as he is one of the team’s top prospects, but if Smith is unavailable in the opening round, Rortvedt will likely start at catcher.