The Los Angeles Dodgers enter Monday’s matchup with the Kansas City Royals looking to settle down after a difficult stretch. Los Angeles dropped eight of its last nine games heading into the series and returned home needing to find some momentum.
The Dodgers have managed without Will Smith for more than two months, with his absence creating another challenge for a team already dealing with several injuries. Smith, who has missed 54 straight games entering Monday, remains one of their most important offensive pieces and their regular starting catcher when healthy.
The Dodgers added catching depth at the trade deadline, reacquiring Ben Rortvedt from the New York Mets and adding Hunter Feduccia from the Tampa Bay Rays. But getting Smith back would restore their preferred option behind the plate.
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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Monday that Smith could take batting practice on the field sometime this week as he continues his recovery from an inflamed disc in his neck.
The manager described it as a “big week” for Smith as he begins ramping up his baseball activities, according to The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya.
Smith has been on the injured list since June and was transferred to the 60-day IL on July 21. The Dodgers initially expected him to return around mid-August, but his recovery has taken longer than hoped.
Roberts confirmed on Aug. 1 that Smith would need at least three to four weeks to ramp back up, including a minor league rehab assignment. That means even a return to on-field batting practice this week would not put him immediately back in the lineup.
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Smith’s eventual return would still provide a major boost. The three-time All-Star hit .296 with 17 home runs and 61 RBI in 110 games last season and helped the Dodgers win their second straight World Series.
The Dodgers will be hoping this week’s progression keeps Smith moving toward a return later this season.
