Will Smith is on track to secure his third consecutive All-Star game selection, but the Dodgers ’ biggest concern is how to preserve him to be effective late in the season.

Smith’s play after the first half over the past two seasons presents a sharp decline compared to his stats prior to the Midsummer Classic. In 2023 he had a .701 OPS and a 91 wRC+ in the second half, and last year he posted a .626 OPS and 78 wRC+ in the second half.

Smith would’ve been an ideal candidate to pinch hit for Dalton Rushing against the Mets on Wednesday with the potential tying run at the plate, but, as Mike DiGiovanna of the Orange County Register reports , the goal is to give Smith adequate rest in the hopes of him having a stellar second half.

“I’ve used Will to hit many times, and he has come int

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