Lawton spent the entire 2002–03 winter rehabbing. Before the 2003 season, Indians' manager Eric Wedge stated that he had questions about Lawton's health. However, team officials also stated that Lawton was completely healthy. At the start of the 2003 season, Lawton's teammate Milton Bradley commented that people would confuse him for Lawton. Bradley joked, "I mean, give me Matt Lawton's paycheck...I'll be Matt." During both the 2002 and 2003 seasons, Lawton purchased tickets for a Boys & Girls Clubs of America group called "Lawton Little Leaguers". On July 11, 2003, Lawton was placed on the disabled list after jamming his middle finger. He rehabbed in the minor leagues, batting .053 in five games with the Double-A Akron Aeros. Lawton was activated from the disabled list on August 18. To make room for Lawton after his activation, the Indians optioned infielder Zach Sorensen to the minor leagues. On September 9, Lawton was again placed on the disabled list due to issues with his middle finger. Lawton also underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus, marking the second time in as many years that he finished his season with surgery. The procedure was performed by Indians' team doctor Mark Schickendantz. With the Indians in 2003, Lawton batted .249 with 57 runs scored, 93 hits, 19 doubles, 15 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases in 99 games played.