What had rapidly become a lopsided game for the Los Angeles Dodgers was exacerbated when J.D. Martinez and Will Smith were both removed from Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds due to injury.
Smith played until the fourth inning, when Austin Barnes took over behind the plate. Smith was forced to leave the game early due to a left elbow injury, according to the Dodgers.
This was due to being struck by a fastball in the first inning. Despite being removed due to what looks to be a minor injury, Smith was on deck to bat in the bottom of the third before the inning ended.
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Furthermore, the Dodgers were down 7-0 at the time, and Smith was starting at catcher for the first time this season in a day game after being in the lineup the night before.
Meanwhile, Martinez was pinch-hit for before entering the game due to left hamstring stiffness. Martinez had to deal with that injury for the second time in a week.
During the weekend series against the Reds, Smith was hitless and only reached base twice.
After the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts may release further details on Martinez’s and Smith’s injuries.
Will Smith injuries
The elbow contusion is Smith’s second injury this season, following a concussion that proved to be more serious than initially thought.
The 28-year-old was sidelined for two weeks in April due to a concussion, and it’s given Roberts pause with each foul ball he now removes his face mask for.
During the month of June, the Dodgers needed to check on Smith in particular.
“I’ve got a little PTSD,” Roberts confessed at the time. “He assured us that he was fine and in good health.” But I do hold my breath occasionally.”
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