Dodgers’ Will Smith on 10-Day IL for Bruised Right Hand

The Los Angeles Dodgers just hit an unexpected snag in their quest to repeat as World Series champs. Star catcher Will Smith landed on the 10-day injured list with a bruised right hand.

They made the move retroactive to Wednesday. It’s a calculated call, giving the Dodgers some wiggle room with his return date as they grind through a crucial stretch.

Smith’s absence is a serious blow to a lineup that’s leaned on him all year. Now, the Dodgers have to test their depth heading into the playoff push.

Will Smith’s Impact on the Dodgers Lineup

Over the last three seasons, Will Smith has been indispensable for L.A. The 30-year-old catcher grabbed All-Star honors each year, bringing rare offensive firepower to a spot usually known for defense.

A Season of High-Level Performance

In 2025, Smith’s been on fire—hitting .296 with 17 homers, 61 RBIs, and a strong .901 OPS in 110 games. Those stats put him among the best-hitting catchers in baseball, and one of the Dodgers’ most reliable bats.

He’s got that mix of power, contact, and patience that keeps the offense balanced. Honestly, this is his first trip to the injured list all season, which says a lot about his durability.

Losing a presence like Smith in the lineup and behind the plate is tough for any contender. The Dodgers have to adjust, and fast.

Roster Moves to Fill the Gap

To fill the immediate hole, the Dodgers called up Chuckie Robinson from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Robinson’s had quite a week—optioned to the minors, then back up again in a flash.

Robinson’s Role Moving Forward

Robinson can’t match Smith’s bat, but he brings solid defense and knows the pitching staff. His job now is to handle the rotation and chip in at the plate when he can.

During the Dodgers’ 13-7 win over the Giants on Saturday, Robinson’s presence gave the team stability behind the dish. Even with Smith out, they managed to keep things steady.

The Dodgers’ Position in the Pennant Race

Right now, the Dodgers hold a 2½-game lead over the Padres in the NL West. As defending champs, they know just how much small margins matter down the stretch.

How Smith’s Absence Impacts the Playoff Push

Postseason success hinges on staying healthy, and missing a key bat—even briefly—could tighten the division race. The Dodgers have a deep lineup, but Smith’s consistency and leadership will be tough to replace.

Guys like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman will need to step up even more.

• Offensive Gap: Smith’s power and average will be missed in big moments.
• Pitching Staff Management: He’s got a real connection with the rotation, which matters for defense and game-calling.
• Depth Test: L.A. has to lean on role players and their farm system to get through this stretch.

Looking Ahead

The retroactive IL move means Smith might miss the minimum number of games if things go well. The Dodgers’ medical staff will keep a close eye on him, because getting him healthy for October is what really matters.

Final Thoughts

This setback might just be a blip, but it’s a clear reminder—no team, no matter how stacked, dodges adversity forever.

The Dodgers have a real test ahead. Can they keep their edge in the division while one of their anchors is out?

Honestly, everyone’s waiting for Will Smith to get back out there. The city’s holding its breath as Los Angeles fights to keep its title hopes alive.

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