The latest positive development centers on All-Star catcher Will Smith. Smith is set to begin a minor league rehabilitation assignment with the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, the Oklahoma City Dodgers, on Tuesday, August 25. He’s slated to bat second and catch for the Oklahoma City Comets in their game against the El Paso Chihuahuas.
Injury history and current status
Smith’s last appearance for the Dodgers came on June 5, when he was placed on the 15-day injured list with neck inflammation. He was later diagnosed with an inflamed disk, a setback that extended his absence beyond what the team initially anticipated.
The Dodgers have shuffled through veterans and prospects to fill the catching duties in Smith’s absence, including Chuckie Robinson, Ben Rortvedt, Hunter Feduccia, and rookie Eliezer Alfonzo. Dalton Rushing handled the bulk of the catching tasks until an elbow injury sidelined him as well.
Recent trade deadline moves
As part of the late-season roster reshaping, Feduccia and Rortvedt—who were traded for one another last year—were among the last-minute catching acquisitions acquired around the Aug. 3 trade deadline. They’ve served as the primary backups to Smith since then.
Smith’s performance prior to the injury
Last season, Smith enjoyed a standout year, hitting .296 with a .404 on-base percentage and a .497 slugging percentage. In September 2025, he suffered a hand fracture that affected his counting stats. Nevertheless, he returned in time to participate in the Dodgers’ seven-game World Series victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, catching every inning of the series.
Impact of his return
Beyond his bat, Smith’s presence behind the plate has been highly valued. Dodgers pitchers have an ERA of 3.02 when throwing to Smith, compared with 3.67 when paired with other Dodgers catchers. Among the backup options, Feduccia has performed reasonably well since the acquisition, posting a 95 OPS+ with a 3.17 catcher’s ERA in limited action.
Current status of other players
Rushing has not yet been cleared to begin a minor league rehab assignment and may have played his final game for the season, potentially due to a torn UCL. Still, the organization’s expectation is that Smith’s return is a matter of when, not if, given the progress he has demonstrated in rehabilitation.
Outlook
With Smith nearing a return from the injured list and the catching duties stabilized by a combination of Feduccia, Rortvedt, and others, the Dodgers are poised to strengthen their chances for postseason success. If Smith can regain his form quickly, the team will benefit both defensively and at the plate as they push toward another deep postseason run.
