Will Smith has a hairline fracture in his right hand and is unlikely to return before the Dodgers’ regular season ends, leaving postseason availability in question. Ben Rortvedt has stepped in effectively, batting .294 in 13 games with two doubles and guiding a pitching staff that owns a 2.74 ERA behind the plate. Dalton Rushing is back from injury, but Rortvedt will likely handle the majority of catching duties. Brusdar Graterol isn’t expected back this year. In Smith’s absence, Los Angeles sits 8-6, pushing toward a playoff run with a clearer path to strength behind the plate.

Will Smith's hairline fracture in the right hand sidelines the Dodgers' top catcher as they push toward October. He slashed .296 with 17 homers and 61 RBIs before the issue, but the club is hopeful for a postseason return with timing still up in the air. Ben Rortvedt has stepped in, delivering a .294 average in 13 games and helping the pitching staff to a 2.74 ERA behind the plate. Dalton Rushing is back to share duties, while Brusdar Graterol's season-ending absence tightens an already stressed bullpen. LA navigates late-season tests with depth and cautious optimism.

Dodgers sweep Padres to take a two‑game lead, but the bullpen remains the fulcrum of their recent uneven run. Brusdar Graterol’s season‑ending shoulder issue tightens the squeeze, and Michael Kopech’s rehab start underlines the uphill battle for fresh bullpen reinforcements. Still, Alex Vesia’s weekend relief work offers a spark, and Mookie Betts's game‑winning homer plus Freddie Freeman’s power provide a clear fantasy upside if the contour of late‑inning innings starts to firm up. The series felt like a turning point more than a cure, hinting at a leaner, more leveraged bullpen mix and bigger daily value from the Dodgers’ stars as they chase the division crown.