Dodgers’ Will Smith Battling Lingering Bone Bruise Ahead of Season Opener
Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith finds himself in a challenging situation as he continues to grapple with a persistent bone bruise that has plagued him for the past nine months. The injury, sustained during a slide into second base against the New York Yankees last summer, has proven to be a formidable adversary for Smith, with no immediate resolution in sight.
Manager’s Concerns and Insights
Manager Dave Roberts has expressed his concerns regarding Smith’s injury, indicating that it is unlikely to heal in the near future. Despite the catcher not attributing his second-half struggles in 2024 directly to the bone bruise, Roberts believes that it may have contributed to his performance decline. The manager noted that the injury could have affected Smith’s swing and overall gameplay, emphasizing the importance of managing the situation effectively.
Ongoing Management and Rest as Key to Recovery
Smith’s recovery from the bone bruise primarily hinges on rest, with the catcher having taken the necessary steps to allow for healing during the offseason. However, the lingering nature of the injury has raised questions about its persistence despite treatment efforts. Smith acknowledged the challenge of dealing with an injury that requires time and patience for proper healing, underscoring the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for its prolonged presence.
Implications for the Upcoming Season
As the Dodgers prepare for the season opener in Japan and navigate a condensed offseason, the team’s monitoring of Smith’s condition becomes crucial. With rest being the primary remedy for the bone bruise, both Smith and the Dodgers will need to carefully manage his playing time to ensure his readiness for the upcoming challenges. Despite the ongoing battle with the injury, Smith remains optimistic about his current condition and his ability to perform at a high level.