Dodgers' primary catcher Smith exited early due to a right-hand contusion caused by a foul ball hit.

On the same night Shohei Ohtani was taken off the planned starting roster, Dodgers’ pitcher-catcher duo suffered another blow when catcher Will Smith departed after the second inning in today’s game against the Pirates.

The team reported that Smith was hit on his throwing hand by a foul ball during the second inning, causing a right-hand contusion that led to his exit. Smith stayed behind home plate to finish that inning but was replaced after being examined by the team doctor.

Rookie Dalton Rushing pinch-hit for Smith in the top of the third inning and then took over catching duties.

Throughout July, Smith was the Dodgers’ most consistent hitter, leading the National League with a .325 batting average and delivering reliable performances in clutch situations. However, the starting catcher hit a significant slump in August; while adjusting his batting stance, his average dropped to .159 with an OPS of 0.630.

Nevertheless, Smith ended last month strongly, hitting a pinch-hit walk-off home run on Monday to defeat the Diamondbacks.

The contusion may not be severe enough to place him on the injured list, but if Smith misses any games, Rushing would be the primary candidate for most playing time. Beyond these two, the Dodgers have no other catchers on their 40-man roster. There is speculation about possibly re-signing former Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes, who is currently a free agent.