Will Smith’s Heroics Lift Dodgers to World Series Tie vs. Jays

UPDATE: Will Smith’s pivotal performance powered the Los Angeles Dodgers to a vital 5-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on October 14, 2023, leveling the World Series at one game apiece. Just days after returning from a hand injury, Smith’s clutch hitting has energized the Dodgers at a crucial moment in the postseason.

After missing the final three weeks of the regular season due to a hairline fracture in his right hand, Smith’s return could not have come at a better time. His tie-breaking solo home run in the seventh inning ignited the team’s momentum, showcasing his recovery and readiness for high-stakes baseball. “It’s a big swing, obviously,” Smith said. “The emotion is running high, but I’m also trying to get the guys going.”

Smith, who previously sat out the National League wild-card series, has quickly established himself as a key player, boasting a remarkable .314 postseason average with 11 hits—the most among Dodgers with at least 10 at-bats. His performance on Saturday included two hits and three RBIs, indicating that he is regaining his form just as the playoffs heat up.

The Dodgers now return to Dodger Stadium for Game 3 on Monday, where they will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage. “We’re 1-1 right now. So we’re heading back to L.A. trying to win three more,” Smith stated confidently.

Smith’s impressive recovery has been a game-changer for the Dodgers. Manager Dave Roberts noted the importance of the week off between the NLCS and the World Series, stating, “That week off, I think, got him over the hump.” The break allowed Smith to heal from the rigors of a grueling season where he played 101 games behind the plate.

His determination to keep things simple at the plate has paid off. “I’m just trying not to do too much,” Smith explained. “You can let the emotions get the best of you and try to hit a homer every time, or be the hero every time. It doesn’t work out.” This mindset has resulted in him reaching base safely in seven of his eight starts this postseason.

Smith’s standout performance didn’t just shine in his batting; his game-calling skills have greatly improved, helping pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto secure his second consecutive complete-game victory. “The game-calling, the relationship with the pitchers, has continued to get better,” Roberts added. “He does his homework. At the end of the day, he’s a guy that just doesn’t panic.”

With the stakes higher than ever, Smith is focused on executing under pressure. “It’s fun. It’s pressure baseball,” he said. “Basically, who is going to out-execute who?” With his recent heroics, Smith has positioned the Dodgers as a formidable force in the World Series.

As the series resumes, all eyes will be on Will Smith and the Dodgers to see if they can convert this momentum into a critical lead in the playoffs.