UPDATE: Will Smith’s pivotal performance propelled the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 5-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, leveling the World Series at one game apiece. The All-Star catcher, returning from a hand injury, delivered a tie-breaking solo home run in the seventh inning, marking a significant comeback just in time for postseason action.
After missing the final three weeks of the regular season due to a hairline fracture in his right hand, Smith had been gradually reintegrating into the lineup. He missed the National League wild-card series and was a bench player for the first two games against the Phillies in the division series. However, he has since emerged as a crucial asset, boasting a .314 postseason batting average with 11 hits across the playoffs, the highest among Dodgers players with at least 10 at-bats.
The Dodgers, now returning to Dodger Stadium for game three on October 16, 2023, have regained home-field advantage. “We’re 1-1 right now. So we’re heading back to L.A. trying to win three more,” Smith stated after the game. His performance on Saturday included two hits and three RBIs, showcasing his return to form.
Smith’s home run, a powerful 404-foot shot that hugged the left-field foul pole, is indicative of his recovery from injury. “I hope so,” Smith remarked, expressing optimism that the hand injury is behind him. Manager Dave Roberts credited a week off between the NLCS and World Series for helping Smith find his rhythm, noting that “that week off got him over the hump.”
Despite his physical challenges, Smith maintained a strong mental approach, focusing on simplicity at the plate. “I’m just trying not to do too much,” he explained. “You can let the emotions get the best of you… So I’m just trying to put together an at-bat, get the right pitch.” His strategy paid off when he faced Blue Jays’ starter Kevin Gausman in the seventh inning, taking advantage of a high fastball to secure the lead for the Dodgers.
Smith’s contributions extend beyond his batting; he also played a vital role in guiding pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto through another complete-game victory. “The game-calling, the relationship with the pitchers, has continued to get better,” noted Roberts. “He does his homework.”
This is Smith’s third World Series appearance, and he is determined to secure his third championship ring. “It’s fun. It’s pressure baseball,” he said. “It’s who is going to mess up, who is going to make the right pitch… Basically, who is going to out-execute who?”
As the Dodgers gear up for the upcoming games, all eyes will be on Smith, whose resurgence could be the key to their postseason success. Expect more fireworks when they return to L.A. on Monday.
