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Dodgers' Will Smith Injured, Team Faces Catcher Dilemma

9/14/2025

Summary

Smith Injured, Dodgers Adjust

Dodgers catcher Will Smith is on the 10-day injured list due to a bone bruise in his right hand from a foul ball on September 3.
Manager Dave Roberts noted Smith's condition hasn't improved enough for him to play.
Chuckie Robinson has joined the team, indicating Smith may be sidelined longer than anticipated.
Ben Rortvedt will start as catcher, with Robinson as backup.
The Dodgers lead the NL West by 2.5 games over the Padres, making Smith's absence significant.

Summary

Giants Lose Smith

The San Francisco Giants placed first baseman Dominic Smith on the injured list due to a right hamstring strain from a game against the Dodgers on September 12.
Smith is expected to miss at least 10 days, pending further evaluation.
Jerar Encarnacion will replace Smith and start in right field, while Wilmer Flores and Rafael Devers will share first base duties.
Manager Bob Melvin noted Smith's importance to the team's success as they compete for the NL wild-card spot, currently half a game back.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball established the disabled list in 1975 to help teams manage player injuries and maintain competitive balance. This initiative, driven by the MLB and the Players Association, addressed the growing concern over player health. Today, injuries to players like Will Smith and Dominic Smith continue to challenge teams, particularly as the Dodgers and Giants compete for playoff spots.

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Smith Injured, Dodgers Adjust

Dodgers catcher Will Smith is on the 10-day injured list due to a bone bruise in his right hand from a foul ball on September 3.
Manager Dave Roberts noted Smith's condition hasn't improved enough for him to play.
Chuckie Robinson has joined the team, indicating Smith may be sidelined longer than anticipated.
Ben Rortvedt will start as catcher, with Robinson as backup.
The Dodgers lead the NL West by 2.5 games over the Padres, making Smith's absence significant.

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