Will Smith Hits Birthday Blast to Lift Dodgers Over Diamondbacks

Dodgers star's go-ahead homer in the 8th inning propels team to 3-0 start on his bobblehead night.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:20am

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In a 3-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Dodgers slugger Will Smith hit a decisive two-run homer in the 8th inning on his bobblehead night to give the Dodgers their third straight win to open the season. Smith's wife and daughters participated in the ceremonial first pitch before his clutch at-bat, which came after the Dodgers had fallen behind 2-0 early against Diamondbacks starter Eduardo Rodriguez.

Why it matters

The Dodgers are looking to capture their third consecutive World Series title, and Smith has emerged as a key middle-of-the-order bat for the perennial contenders. His heroics on his bobblehead night showcase his ability to deliver in big moments and provide a spark for the team.

The details

With the Dodgers trailing 2-1 in the 8th inning, Mookie Betts worked a four-pitch walk to set the stage for Smith. On a 2-2 count, Smith crushed a fastball over the center field wall with a 105.1-mph exit velocity to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead. Closer Edwin Diaz then recorded a perfect 9th inning to seal the victory. Earlier, Dodgers starter Tyler Glasnow had kept the team in the game, allowing 2 runs over 6 innings with 6 strikeouts.

  • The Dodgers fell behind 2-0 early in the game against Diamondbacks starter Eduardo Rodriguez.
  • In the 6th inning, the Dodgers scored a run to make it 2-1 on a double by Freddie Freeman.
  • In the 8th inning, Will Smith hit the go-ahead two-run homer to give the Dodgers a 3-2 lead.
  • Closer Edwin Diaz recorded a perfect 9th inning to earn the save.

The players

Will Smith

The Dodgers' clutch middle-of-the-order hitter who hit the go-ahead two-run homer in the 8th inning on his bobblehead night.

Eduardo Rodriguez

The Diamondbacks left-handed starter who kept the Dodgers' powerful lineup in check for most of the game, allowing just 1 unearned run over 5+ innings.

Tyler Glasnow

The Dodgers' starting pitcher who kept his team in the game, allowing 2 runs over 6 innings with 6 strikeouts.

Edwin Diaz

The Dodgers' closer who recorded a perfect 9th inning to earn the save.

Mookie Betts

The Dodgers' leadoff hitter who worked a crucial four-pitch walk in the 8th inning to set the stage for Smith's heroics.

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What they’re saying

“Will Smith has a flair for the dramatic, and he delivered again on his bobblehead night.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

The Dodgers will look to continue their hot start to the season when they face the Diamondbacks again on Sunday.

The takeaway

Will Smith's clutch home run on his bobblehead night underscores his importance as a middle-of-the-order power bat for the Dodgers as they pursue a third straight World Series title. The team's ability to overcome early deficits and get contributions from up and down the lineup bodes well for their championship aspirations.