Dodgers Triumph Over Giants: What Will Smith’s Injury Means for Playoff Prospects

Seventeen days into the situation, the Dodgers finally have clarity on Will Smith’s hand injury. Manager Dave Roberts announced that Smith has a hairline fracture in his right hand. He’s doubtful to return before the regular season ends, but the team hopes to have him back for the playoffs.

This past week, the Dodgers have won four straight games, which puts them 10-3 in their last 13. They only need three more wins to clinch the National League West. However, Smith’s injury is a cloud hanging over the team’s recent success.

Smith is a three-time All-Star and was leading the National League in batting average before a rough August. His injury came on September 3 when a foul ball hit his hand. He missed five games, returned, but then had to go on the injured list again when swelling occurred. Initial tests showed no break, leaving team officials puzzled until a follow-up MRI revealed the fracture.

“It’s common for these kinds of small fractures to be missed early,” said Andrew Friedman, the team’s president of baseball operations. The recovery process is still underway, focusing on treatment and strength-building for Smith.

So far, the Dodgers have managed well without Smith. In 15 games since his injury, they are 9-6 and averaging over five runs per game. A big reason behind this success is Ben Rortvedt, a minor-league player who was acquired shortly before the trade deadline. Rortvedt has stepped up, batting .270 with solid performance behind the plate. Dodgers pitchers have a 2.74 ERA with him catching.

Pitcher Tyler Glasnow had a shaky first inning but rebounded to help secure a win against the Giants, demonstrating the team’s ability to overcome challenges without their star catcher.

Smith’s absence is felt, but the Dodger players have been stepping up. “Our guys are playing playoff-caliber baseball,” Roberts said, emphasizing the needed intensity as they approach playoffs.

In related news, the team isn’t expecting reliever Brusdar Graterol back this season. His recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing slower than anticipated, which may limit the roster as the season wraps up.

As for Smith, the team’s hope remains high. The goal is for his hand to heal quickly, although no one can confirm a specific timeline. Until then, the Dodgers continue to push forward, aiming for postseason success.



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