A timely comeback for Will Smith
Will Smith, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ catcher, has been sidelined since mid‑June with a neck injury that initially landed him on the 10‑day injured list and later moved him to the 60‑day list on July 21. After a period of rest, the 27‑year‑old has begun baseball‑specific work, reporting that he is pain‑free and already engaged in lifting, throwing and swinging.
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the progress, noting that Smith’s recovery has been steady and that the player is on track to rejoin the club before the postseason. The catcher’s return would add depth to a roster that has been navigating the absence of its primary backstop.
In Smith’s absence, rookie Dalton Rushing has stepped into the starting role and has shown signs of improvement. Since June 11 he has posted a 93 wRC+, and his July performance includes a .797 OPS and a 118 wRC+, suggesting he can hold his own while the team evaluates the best path forward.
The Dodgers are set to open a home series against the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday, marking their first game on their own turf since the All‑Star break. The matchup will be a litmus test for Rushing’s readiness and for Smith’s eventual reintegration into the lineup.
If Smith can stay healthy, his presence behind the plate could prove pivotal as the club pushes toward the playoffs, giving the Dodgers a reliable option at catcher and a boost to their overall depth.