Dodgers Face Challenges in NLCS as Will Smith Celebrates New Arrival

Dodgers Struggle in NLCS

The Los Angeles Dodgers face a tough situation, trailing 2-0 in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Milwaukee Brewers. As the series moves to the West Coast, the team relies on their star players to perform at their best in this crucial time.

Will Smith’s Personal Milestone

Dodgers catcher Will Smith has another important event in his life. His wife, Cara, celebrated the birth of their third child, Carter, on Wednesday. Cara shared this joyful news via Instagram, highlighting all three of their children arriving in October. Their daughter Charlotte was born in 2022, followed by Layton in October 2024—a month when the Dodgers won the World Series.

Hopes for Dodgers’ Success

The Smiths hope Carter’s arrival will bring good fortune, aiming for the Dodgers’ third World Series appearance in as many seasons. To achieve this, they need to overcome the Brewers, who boast the best record in baseball this year. The series briefly pauses between Games 2 and 3, allowing Smith time for travel and rest.

Game 3: A Crucial Moment

Despite the break, Smith must quickly return to action, catching Blake Snell in a crucial Game 3. A win is necessary for the Dodgers to regain momentum. Historically, a 3-0 lead in a best-of-seven series is tough to overcome. The Dodgers aim not to face this challenge against Milwaukee.

Performance Concerns

Smith is looking to reverse his recent struggles at the plate. This postseason, he has just one hit in 19 attempts, including eight strikeouts and a single walk. Shohei Ohtani also encounters difficulties, affected by injuries to his knee and arm. Despite these issues, Manager Dave Roberts keeps him in the lineup, moving Ohtani to sixth as the designated hitter against Brewers’ left-hander Robert Gasser.

Lineup Strategy

Smith follows Ohtani in the batting order, positioned seventh, while assuming his regular duties as catcher. Both players are key as the Dodgers strive to change the series dynamics.

Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.