Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on catcher Will Smith’s availability before LA’s series finale against the Chicago Cubs.
Smith isn’t in the lineup for the final game of the series, marking the second consecutive game he’s ridden the pine, and Roberts revealed his back was “a little tight” before the second game of the series Saturday. Ahead of Sunday’s game, Roberts said Smith is available to play if need be. He described the catcher’s condition as “day-to-day,” per AM 570’s David Vassegh.
Smith last featured in the opening game of the series for the Dodgers, where he hit a home run and tallied three RBIs, bringing his total to 14 on the season.
How has Will Smith Played in 2026?
Smith has obviously been one of the Dodgers’ main contributors this season, as has been the norm for the past few years. He’s off to a solid start to the year, hitting three homers and logging 14 RBIs through 24 games played.
The All-Star has a .266/.337/.392 slash line through the young season, bringing his OPS to .729.
Who Has Replaced Will Smith in the Lineup?
Dalton Rushing has gotten all of the playing time at catcher when Smith needs a break, and he has done a fantastic job of taking over for the veteran.
He has seven homers this season through just 11 games, and has driven in 15 runs this season. His OPS sits north of 1.000, and his 1.532 is the highest on the team.
Rushing will get the start for the series finale against the Cubs, where LA will look to put some pressure on the Padres, who took over top spot in the NL West.
The Dodgers will hope for a comfortable win against the Cubs in the final game of the series, as it would secure their first series win in more than a week and give Smith the rest he needs if they can keep him on the bench.
Justin Wrobleski will look to get another solid start under his belt for LA in the game, which begins Sunday at 1:10 p.m. PT.
How do you think the Dodgers should handle Will Smith and Dalton Rushing given the sophomore catcher’s fantastic form?