Dodgers All-Star Catcher Will Smith Out Remainder Regular Season with Hand Fracture

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith has been diagnosed with a small hairline fracture in his right hand, which will likely keep him out for the remainder of the regular season and possibly into the start of the postseason. Smith sustained the injury after a foul ball struck his hand on September 3, initially being considered day-to-day but later placed on the 10-day injured list as the injury lingered and worsened. Despite an initial clean MRI, a subsequent scan revealed the fracture, which has raised concerns about his availability for the playoffs, though the Dodgers remain hopeful he will return. Smith had been having a strong season, batting .296 with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs, leading the National League in on-base percentage among players with at least 110 games played. In his absence, Ben Rortvedt and others have taken over catching duties, but the Dodgers face challenges given the diminished offensive production behind the plate. The injury is considered a significant blow to the Dodgers, as Smith is arguably one of the best right-handed hitters in their lineup and a key player defensively.