Dodgers Face Injury Concern with Star Catcher

The Dodgers are dealing with another injury issue affecting one of their key players. Will Smith, the team’s catcher, missed Saturday’s game due to a back strain and sat out again on Sunday. Manager Dave Roberts, however, is optimistic, stating he doesn’t foresee the need to place Smith on injured reserve.

Roberts mentioned that Smith is able to play if necessary, but they decided it was wise to give him an additional day off. “I think we’ll categorize him as day-to-day,” he said. There’s hope that Smith could be back in action on Monday.

Initially, the concerns about Smith’s back arose over the past week, with reports of worsening symptoms by the end of that period. Despite these issues, Roberts downplayed the situation, suggesting there was “nothing to worry about” and expected Smith to play on Sunday. However, when the team revealed its lineup, Smith was notably missing, with Dalton Rushing stepping in.

“It’s about getting Dalton going,” Roberts explained. Rushing has had a stellar start to the season, racking up seven home runs and 15 RBIs over just 40 at-bats, leading the team with a .400 batting average and a 1.532 OPS.

Nevertheless, Smith remains the team’s primary catcher. In his performances, he holds a .266 batting average with three home runs and 14 RBIs, which includes three runs scored from his last game.

If Smith does need to be placed on injured reserve, a few minor league players, such as Sebby Zabala, Chucky Robinson, and Eliezer Alfonzo, could fill in. Yet, Roberts has firmly stated that injured reserve is not currently a consideration for Smith.