A Tough Year for Will Smith
Dodgers catcher Will Smith, known for his solid defense and strong bat, faced a challenging 2022 season. On June 8 at Yankee Stadium, Smith tried to beat a throw by sliding into second base. Unfortunately, his left foot awkwardly hit the bag, causing a bone bruise that plagued him for the rest of the year. Despite the injury, it wasn’t publicly revealed until spring training, when manager Dave Roberts announced that Smith would miss the start of Cactus League play to give his ankle extra rest. "I just don’t think it’s something that’s gonna go away anytime soon," Roberts said, acknowledging the lingering issue.
The Impact of Injuries
Smith’s 2022 season was a stark contrast to his standout performance in 2021, where he earned his second All-Star selection. His batting average dipped to .248, and his on-base-plus-slugging (OPS) percentage fell to .760, both career lows. The ankle injury, which carried over from the previous season, was a significant factor in his decline. Smith had to manage the pain throughout the year, and the injury continued to affect him even into spring training. "It just stuck around all year," Smith said, emphasizing the persistence of the issue. This isn’t the first time Smith has had to deal with nagging injuries; in 2023, a rib injury also hampered his performance.
A New Season, A Fresh Start
Despite the setbacks, Smith is determined to bounce back in 2023. He made his spring debut on March 3, going 0 for 3 but spending five innings behind the plate in the Dodgers’ win against the Angels. Smith reported that his ankle felt 100%, and there are no concerns about him missing the start of the season, which begins with a trip to Japan. "The only thing that really heals it is rest," Smith said, highlighting the ongoing management of his injury. The Dodgers are optimistic about Smith’s potential, and manager Dave Roberts believes that with the right adjustments, Smith can regain his form.
Adjusting Mechanics
Smith has been working diligently on his mechanics to improve his swing. He acknowledged that there were some issues with his technique last year that he needed to address. "There are definitely some mechanical things I was doing last year that I need to clean up," Smith said. "So worked on them all offseason. Feels good. Swing feels like it’s in a good spot." He focused on staying more inside the ball to create "room for my hands to work." Roberts also noted that Smith’s improvements in his swing are promising, and he believes the ankle injury is less of a hindrance now.
The Manager’s Perspective
Roberts is confident that Smith can return to his best form. "It’s one of those things that he’s just going to have to deal with it," Roberts said, referring to the ankle injury. "But I think right now he’s in a really good spot." Roberts believes that Smith, who is entering the second season of his 10-year, $140-million extension, is still one of the best hitters at his position. The manager’s positive outlook is a testament to Smith’s resilience and the team’s belief in his abilities. "He’ll never use that as an excuse," Roberts said, adding that the injury may have played a part in last year’s struggles, particularly in his swing and running.
Looking Forward
As the Dodgers prepare for the new season, the focus is on Smith’s recovery and performance. The team’s investment in him, both financially and through support, underscores their belief in his potential. Smith’s determination to overcome his injuries and improve his mechanics is a testament to his professionalism and dedication. With a fresh start and a solid game plan, the Dodgers are hopeful that Will Smith will return to form and contribute significantly to the team’s success in 2023.
