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5h ago

Dodgers Scratch Will Smith From Lineup After Sudden Neck Stiffness

The Dodgers call the neck issue acute, relying on backup Dalton Rushing with Smith slated to return for Sunday’s series finale.

Image
May 15, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) runs during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
May 26, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) runs after hitting a two run home run against the Colorado Rockies during the sixth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Smith woke Saturday with sudden neck stiffness that led to a late scratch from the Angels game.
  • The club does not view the issue as long term and expects Smith to be back in the starting lineup for Sunday’s series finale.
  • Dalton Rushing was inserted on short notice and the coaching staff praised his preparedness after he caught starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
  • The scratch aligned with a preplanned catcher rest day and follows Smith’s April lower‑back absence and a quiet offensive stretch this season.
  • The move highlights the Dodgers’ internal depth and workload management approach, which lets them protect veteran catchers while giving younger players key experience.