Fri Sep 05 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Dodgers Shuffle Lineup: Ohtani Pushed Back, Smith Injured

**PITTSBURGH** – The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a series of roster adjustments as they head into a weekend series against the Baltimore Orioles. Star two-way player Shohei Ohtani’s scheduled start on Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Pirates was scrapped due to a chest cold. As a result, the Dodgers have pushed his next pitching appearance to Monday against the Colorado Rockies in Los Angeles to allow for full recovery. Ohtani will continue to serve as the team’s designated hitter.

Adding to the concerns, catcher Will Smith sustained a bruised right hand after being hit by a foul ball on Wednesday. While initial X-rays were negative, further imaging was conducted on Thursday. Manager Dave Roberts anticipates Smith will miss the upcoming series against the Orioles and is unlikely to be placed on the injured list.

Rookie catcher Dalton Rushing is expected to take on a more significant role behind the plate in Smith’s absence. To bolster the catching depth, the Dodgers have selected the contract of veteran catcher Ben Rortvedt from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Infielder Alex Freeland was optioned to Oklahoma City to make room on the roster. In a corresponding move, right-hander Alexis Diaz was designated for assignment.

In other news, third baseman Max Muncy is set to begin a rehab assignment with Oklahoma City on Thursday night as he recovers from a strained right oblique. He was placed on the IL on August 15.

Despite the pitching setback and the catcher’s injury, Ohtani continues to excel as a hitter, batting .280 with 46 home runs and leading the National League in runs scored (125) and slugging percentage (.610). He is looking forward to return to the mound. The Dodgers hope to get Ohtani back on his pitching schedule as soon as possible, as he has a 1-1 record with a 4.18 ERA in 11 starts this season.

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