Will Smith Was Benched Before the Anthem: What Shocking Twist Sidelined the Dodgers Star at the Last Minute?

In 2026, Will Smith was among the top five catchers in MLB history for offensive production.

September 12, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 12, 2026

As the fans settled into their seats, eagerly waiting in anticipation, they watched as the Dodgers caught a curveball when Will Smith suddenly disappeared.

On Wednesday, September 10, Will Smith was locked in and set to bring the win home for the Dodgers.

However, his hand began to swell up again fifteen minutes before their last game, making it difficult for Will to participate.

It turns out that what happened to Will Smith in the Dodgers game was more than just a quick bruise; it was a persistent injury from a prior game.

On September 3, he suffered a devastating foul ball strike to his right hand during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Shortly after the first pitch, Will Smith was struck hard by a ball that rebounded off Nick Gonzales’ bat, while he was in his usual position.

Regardless, he persevered and finished the second inning; however, in the third inning, a medical evaluation led to his replacement.

After leaving the game, Will Smith underwent X-rays and a CT scan, which revealed no fractures or other injury.

Postgame, manager Dave Roberts shared tha Will Smith sustained a contusion in his right hand.

Will Smith’s health has become a hot topic in Dodgers Nation as the postseason draws near. Fans have taken to social media to show their concern and support for their All-Star catcher.

Ben Rortvedt Steps In For Will Smith: Is This Just A Temporary Fix Or The Start Of A New Dodgers Era?

After Will Smith’s injury, Dalton Rushing was prepared to take over the next game against the Orioles behind the plate.

However, in a sad turn of events, Dalton Rushing fouled a ball off his shin and suffered a severe bone bruise. He had to be assisted off the pitch and was put on the 10-day Injured List.

As of now, Will Smith has not been placed on the Injured List, despite missing five of the following six games.

On September 10, Will Smith only made one fleeting appearance before being scratched from the Dodgers’ Lineup for the Rockies Series Finale.

The Dodgers looked to Ben Rortvedt, a midseason acquisition from the Tampa Bay Rays, after both Will and Dalton were sidelined.

Ben Rortvedt is renowned for his ability in game-calling, pitch sequencing, and receiving skills. These skills have helped the Dodgers come close to achieving two no-hitters in the last week.

Ben is here to keep the Dodgers stable and not to take away Will Smith’s spotlight while he heals his hand.

However, fans remain optimistic that Rortvedt will step up again in the following games.

Additionally, fan theories are circulating on X (formerly Twitter) that speculate whether his contract was the reason behind his game-ending scratch.

He addressed the rumors directly and claimed it had nothing to do with the contract. Will Smith and the Dodgers have not made an official announcement regarding their long-term plan.

Moreover, there will be increased anticipation surrounding Ben and every Dodgers lineup card until Will Smith heals and returns to the field.

Additional Information

• Will Smith was a standout pitcher at Kentucky Country Day School. In his senior year, he posted a 7-1 record with a 0.87 ERA.
• Despite his impressive stats, Will Smith wasn’t selected in the 2013 MLB Draft.
• Will Smith spent a summer with the Brewster Whitecaps in the Cape Cod Baseball League.

• Check other Articles on

Every athlete has a story beyond the game, and as an aspiring blogger, Astha uncovers the moments behind sidelines that turn into headlines. Writing has given her the space to traverse and make connections that feels authentic. Beyond sports, she enjoys poetry, music, and trends that spark conversations and bring people together.

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