Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Says Will Smith Finally Turning the Corner at the Plate

A few weeks ago, Will Smith was hit in the ribs. While he didn’t take time off, the injury has affected his offensive performance. Manager Dave Roberts addressed the media about Smith’s rib injury and how he thinks he's finally turning the corner.

“I think it’s been underestimated what effect getting hit in the ribs affected him and his swing and the mechanics of it,” Roberts said. “There was some subconscious protecting of it, which is natural. And that affected mechanics."

Roberts said that he’s finally seeing him come out of it and attack balls again and get back to being the player he was before.

“His value for our lineup is not undervalued,” Roberts said. “So he’s a high priority to make sure he’s right, swinging the bat well as we finish up September and into the postseason.”

Smith is in the third spot in the Dodger lineup. During August, he struggled offensively with a .235 batting average, and in September, he has a .208 batting average. On Tuesday against the San Diego Padres, though, he had 2 hits, including a home run.

Defensively, Smith has continued to contribute and guide the young Dodger pitching staff. The Dodgers will need Smith operating on all cylinders to have a chance to win another world championship this postseason.

Until the regular season ends, the Dodgers may play Austin Barnes more than he is accustomed to, so Smith can be as healthy and rested as he can come October.