PITTSBURGH — What might have begun as a minor neck issue for Dodgers catcher Will Smith is now potentially leading him toward a spot on the disabled list.
Smith was benched for the third consecutive game on Tuesday due to neck stiffness.
Manager Dave Roberts had initially downplayed the injury’s seriousness but later admitted it was “in fact likely” that the three-time All-Star would end up on the IL.
“He still doesn’t feel well,” Roberts noted. “I’m not sure what they’re contemplating or how the imaging results look. It’s still day-to-day. But I just want him to fully evaluate the situation with his trainer before any decisions are made. If that leads to a decision today, then we’ll take it step by step from there.”
Roberts mentioned Smith’s neck discomfort started “out of nowhere,” leading to his initial sidelining on Saturday.
The team’s hope was that he could return by Sunday, and then it was believed an off day on Monday would help him recover.
Unfortunately, even after taking swings and some light play on Tuesday, Smith wasn’t back to his usual self.
Time is running out for the Dodgers to make an IL decision since the minimum stint is 10 days, but it can only be backdated three days.
“We’re beginning to discuss it,” Roberts said.
The Dodgers certainly need to hope this injury doesn’t linger.
In other potential roster developments, two new pitchers joined the Dodgers in Pittsburgh.
Minor league relievers Chaice McDermott and Jake Eder were brought in on the team’s taxi squad; however, Roberts clarified they aren’t on the active roster just yet.
“For now, things remain the same,” Roberts stated. “We’ve added some depth because a few guys have been pitching well. So we’re bringing in more players just in case. But from the feedback I’ve had, the pitching staff is managing fine.”
On a different note, Shohei Ohtani is set to pitch in a two-way role on Wednesday and might stay in the starting lineup for the following day’s game.
The Dodgers have kept their batting lineup steady in anticipation of Ohtani’s more consistent role, which differs from earlier in the season when he focused mainly on pitching. However, they’ve also allowed him some rest the following day.
Roberts indicated that they’re ready to give Ohtani a little more playing time this week, especially with the team being off on Monday; “As I see it now, I expect him to be in the lineup on Thursday,” he confirmed.
