Dodgers Manage Will Smith Bone Bruise, Rortvedt Backup Role

Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star catcher Will Smith suffered a bone bruise on his right hand after being hit by a foul ball during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading to his absence from the lineup for several games. Despite the injury, Smith avoided placement on the 10-day injured list following clean X-ray and CT scan results, although Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated that Smith will likely have to manage the injury for the remainder of the season. Smith has had a career year in 2025, with a .296 batting average, .405 on-base percentage, and a 153 wRC+, making him one of the most valuable offensive players on the team alongside Shohei Ohtani. The injury has raised concerns about potential impacts on his offensive production and throwing ability, as the bone bruise and associated swelling are expected to linger. In Smith's absence, Dalton Rushing has been starting at catcher, with Ben Rortvedt added to the roster as his backup, providing the Dodgers with necessary depth behind the plate. The Dodgers' offense has struggled recently, making Smith's injury a significant challenge for the team as they continue their season.