Will Smith Injury Update: Dodgers Catcher Exits With Hand Contusion

The Los Angeles Dodgers hit a rough patch on Wednesday night against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Star catcher Will Smith left the game after a right hand injury.

In the second inning, a foul tip from Nick Gonzales bounced off Smith’s catching hand. He tried to tough it out, but the pain was too much. Rookie Dalton Rushing took over behind the plate.

Now, the Dodgers are watching Smith’s status closely. They might have to shuffle the lineup for a bit.

How the Injury Happened

Emmet Sheehan was pitching to Gonzales when it happened. A routine foul ball took a bad hop and slammed right into Smith’s hand.

Catching isn’t exactly gentle on the hands, but this one clearly hurt more than most. Smith looked uncomfortable right away.

Smith’s Determination to Stay in the Game

Still, Smith finished out the bottom of the second inning. By the third, though, the Dodgers decided to pull him for his own good.

Rushing stepped in as catcher. That move probably saved Smith from making things worse.

The Diagnosis and Recovery Timeline

After the game, manager Dave Roberts called it a right hand contusion. The good news? X-rays came back negative, so there’s no fracture.

Roberts said Smith’s hand was swollen and sore. For now, he’s officially day-to-day.

Unlikely to Play Immediately

Roberts didn’t sound optimistic about Smith playing the next day. Catching is brutal on the hands, and there’s no sense in pushing him back too soon.

The Dodgers want to be careful. It’s just not worth risking a setback.

Dalton Rushing Steps In

With Smith out, Dalton Rushing got a shot to show what he can do in the big leagues. He didn’t waste it—he went 1-for-2 with a single and drew a walk.

Rushing’s performance at the plate and behind it gives the Dodgers a solid backup option while Smith heals up.

Potential Roster Moves

Roberts hinted the team might call up another catcher for extra depth. That would help Rushing and keep the team covered if Smith misses more games.

Why Will Smith’s Health Matters So Much

Smith isn’t just any catcher—he anchors the Dodgers’ defense and brings steady offense. He handles the pitching staff, controls the running game, and comes up with big hits.

His leadership and experience matter, especially in tight division races. With October looming, keeping Smith healthy matters more than squeezing out a few extra wins right now.

Looking Ahead

For now, the Dodgers are taking things day by day. They’ll check on Smith each morning and weigh wins against his long-term health.

Rushing has shown he can handle the job for now. If they bring in another catcher, Los Angeles should be able to weather this little storm just fine.

Key Takeaways

Here’s what Dodgers fans should keep in mind following Smith’s injury:

• The injury turned out to be a right hand contusion — no fractures, thankfully.
• X-rays came back negative. Smith is considered day-to-day.
• He probably won’t play in the next game.
• Dalton Rushing stepped in and looked sharp, both at the plate and behind it.
• The team might call up another catcher to boost their depth a bit.

Any time without Smith stings for Los Angeles, but the news could’ve been worse. If the swelling goes down fast, maybe he’s back in just a few days.

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