The Dodgers now have an 88.9% chance of winning the series after winning the first two games against the Phillies. Yet, as the team edges closer to sealing the NLDS, manager Dave Roberts faces an unexpected setback. The same player who kept Philadelphia in check during the sixth inning—diving toward third base to stop the go-ahead run—now faces an uncertain timeline. That spectacular defensive moment might have cost Los Angeles, as an injury concern looms.

Miguel Rojas made the play that shifted momentum back to the Dodgers. But after the play, Rojas wasn’t looking very comfortable heading back to the dugout, which raised eyebrows. Dave Roberts addressed the situation after Game 2.

“Miggy, great play, aggressive, heady play to get Trea at third base on the force play,” Roberts mentioned. “And then the hamstring tightened up a little bit on him. It’s something he’s been dealing with for the past few weeks. Wanted to get him out of there.” Then he continued talking about Max Muncy, too.

“Obviously liked Muncy coming into the game. We’ll see how he comes in tomorrow. And his status, I would say it’s fair to say it’s day to day.”

Rojas’ risky defensive move in the sixth inning, when he slid across the infield to tag Trea Turner out at third, turned the game. His awareness and accuracy showed how tough the Dodgers’ defense was in a high-pressure situation, helping them hold on to the lead in a thrilling 4–3 win. But with that came the injury scare, too!

Now, the injury timeline feels frustratingly familiar for Rojas.

Back in June, he injured his left index finger after being tagged out at a base, forcing him to exit mid-game. It was also day-to-day, and he didn’t land in IL. But yet another injury, this time in the most crucial stretch of the season, is a worrisome situation for Dave Roberts and Co.

Rojas has quietly been a difference-maker this postseason.

Three hits and an RBI across seven at-bats tell part of the story, but his defensive skills complete it. This regular season, he has posted a 1.000 fielding percentage at third base, handling 126 total chances without a single error. So, losing him would be a setback for the Boys in Blue.

As the series shifts back to Dodger Stadium for Game 3, the lineup card already has Max Muncy at third base against Phillies right-hander Aaron Nola. But Roberts now faces a bigger question.

Can he count on Rojas as a defensive replacement late in games? Because that versatility matters when October baseball turns into a chess match between dugouts.

For the manager, Rojas’ injury isn’t the only concern from the dugout, though!

Dave Roberts’ calculated move ahead of Wednesday’s clash

With injury concerns mounting, Dave Roberts’ game plan for Game 3 has tightened. The Dodgers need to be careful with their lineup approach as they get ready to wrap up the NLDS at home on Wednesday.

Miguel Rojas had a scare with his hamstring, and Will Smith is still recovering. So, Roberts is playing it smart with his catchers.

Ben Rortvedt has been behind the plate for the first two games and handled things well. Will Smith, still recovering from a broken hand, has been easing back into action—pinch-hitting and catching a few innings when needed. This setup keeps Smith fresh without overworking him, preserving his bat and defense for the biggest moments.

The manager remains careful about Smith’s Game 3 availability. “I think the thought was similar to Game 1, given [Smith] hasn’t had much of a workup coming back from the IL… if we continue to trend, then having him start Game 3, if it still looks good,” the skipper explained. His words are a mix of optimism and awareness that they can’t rush the process.

Smith’s impact is undeniable. His two-run single in Game 2 shifted the momentum for the Dodgers, and having him behind the plate helps stabilize the pitching staff. If he gets cleared to start, his return would give Los Angeles a significant boost heading into Game 3.