LOS ANGELES (AP) — In a significant boost for their roster, the Los Angeles Dodgers have reinstated starting catcher Will Smith, backup Dalton Rushing, and pitcher Justin Wrobleski from the injured list. This strategic move comes as the team prepares for the crucial final month of the MLB season, aiming to solidify their position in the playoff race.
Will Smith, who has been sidelined since June 6 due to a neck injury, returns to a lineup that has been struggling with consistency. Before his injury, Smith had played in 52 games, posting a batting average of .249 along with six home runs and 23 RBIs. His return is expected to enhance the Dodgers' offensive capabilities significantly. During his rehabilitation, Smith made five appearances with Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he batted .250 with two doubles and one home run.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about the reinforcements, stating, “We’ve got a lot of the bases covered. Now, the guys that essentially play every day need to just perform.” Smith is set to bat fifth in the lineup for the Dodgers' series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals, with plans for him to start in two of the three games in the series.
Dalton Rushing, who had been out since August 3 with a right arm injury, also returns to the fold. The 25-year-old had a breakout season prior to his injury, appearing in a career-high 74 games and recording a .253 batting average with 12 home runs and 36 RBIs. Although he will initially serve as a pinch-hitter, Roberts is keen on getting Rushing acclimated to the role, emphasizing his potential as a power hitter.
“He’ll be prepared and it is my job to get him repetitions to see how it looks and get him used to coming off the bench,” Roberts noted. The manager is hopeful that Rushing might be able to catch before the postseason, but he remains cautious about the timeline.
Pitcher Justin Wrobleski, who has been recovering from left forearm inflammation, made one rehab appearance where he allowed one run and struck out two in 1 1/3 innings. The All-Star left-hander boasts an impressive record of 11-5 with a 3.56 ERA this season and will now contribute from the bullpen.
In addition to these returns, infielder Alex Freeland has been added to the active roster. To accommodate his return, outfielder Alek Thomas has been optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City, and catcher Ben Rortvedt has been designated for assignment. Freeland, who has played in 72 games this season with a .231 average, is expected to bring depth and versatility to the infield as the Dodgers navigate the final stretch of the regular season.
As the Dodgers gear up for the playoffs, the integration of these players back into the lineup is crucial. The team has faced challenges with injuries and inconsistent performance, but with key players returning, they hope to regain momentum and secure their spot in the postseason.
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