What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Dodgers catcher Will Smith has been diagnosed with a hairline fracture in his hand, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the regular season and potentially the playoffs. Smith, who has been a key player for the Dodgers with a .296 batting average and 17 home runs this season, was placed on the injured list last week. The injury is a significant blow to the Dodgers, who rely heavily on Smith's offensive and defensive contributions. With Smith sidelined, the Dodgers are expected to turn to Ben Rortvedt as their primary catcher, despite his struggles at the plate this season.
Why It's Important?
Smith's injury could have a substantial impact on the Dodgers' postseason performance. As one of the team's top hitters, his absence could weaken the lineup, placing additional pressure on other key players like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers' catching depth is also a concern, as backup options have not performed at Smith's level. This situation highlights the importance of depth and resilience in a team's roster, especially as they approach critical playoff games.
What's Next?
The Dodgers will need to assess Smith's recovery progress closely to determine his availability for the playoffs. In the meantime, they will rely on Rortvedt and other catchers to fill the gap. The team's management may also consider additional roster moves to bolster their catching options if Smith's absence extends into the postseason.
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